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CHRYSLER PT CRUISER 2001

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Khatir Soltani
A RETRO CAR OF INTERNATIONAL CLASS
Marketing a «somewhat different and exceptional» vehicle on a large scale is like throwing the dice. Any manufacturer, intent of such a venture, knows about the risks he is about to run.

Near the turn of the third millennium, VW was the first automobile great to take that challenge by introducing the New Beetle, and it turned out to be a home run. That unique creature found immediate success, at least in North America.

It is not an easy task to design a vehicle that meets the demands of the consumers, especially if it is going to be distributed everywhere in the world. If it is too large, Europeans and Asians will not like it. If it is too small, Americans will disregard it. The solution lies in the design of a distinctly styled vehicle featuring a roomy enough and functional interior in order to appeal to North Americans.

Chrysler is second to none when it comes to unleashing passions with new models bursting with imagination, and put together both parameters with the design of the PT Cruiser (PT standing for Personal Transportation).

While I was having a close look at the PT Cruiser in Detroit last year, it appeared a lot larger than the Neon from which it derives. However, according to specifications, it is 5.6 inches (142 mm) shorter than the Neon. Moreover, its 103 inches (2616 mm) wheelbase is two inches shorter.

Being higher and bulkier overall makes it look larger than the small Chrysler car.It's back to the forties styling with prominent fenders, Prowler type grill, huge mat black front bumper as well as rocker panels looking like running boards that make it look large.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada