2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Base

Chrysler has continued to expand and alter the PT Cruiser lineup from year to year, but this base model has remained largely untouched.  For 2004, it is now only available with a five-speed manual transmission.

The PT Base model offers eager buyers a comparatively affordable route to owning this popular compact wagon, and it is offered at about $8000 less than the most upscale trim.  The roster of standard items has not expanded much since 2001. Highlights are power windows, a CD audio system, tilt wheel, air conditioning, and intermittent wipers.  The Touring is closest in price to the Base, and it features a considerable number of additional amenities.

The PT Cruiser Base model is powered by the original 2.4 liter DOHC inline four, which provides 150 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.  With this engine, the PT will make an epic journey from 0 to 60 in just under eleven seconds.  The modest power supply does not offer much of a fuel economy benefit: mixed driving MPG averages for all models are in the low 20s.

Owners have continued to praise the PT for its distinctive styling and highly configurable interior arrangements.  Poor fuel economy tops the list of complaints.