2005 Used Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible Buying Guide
Chrysler is not what it used to be, it’s better. A merger with Daimler, a whole range of new vehicles and an upgrade of existing styles has transformed this manufacturer’s market offerings.
In 2005, the PT Cruiser Convertible continues that new image with a reduction in price to increase affordability and broaden the PT Cruiser market. With three trim levels, three engine choices, a ton of option packages and its tradition of versatility, the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible continues to be a highly personable and personalizable vehicle.
Under the Hood
As with the wagon, the first engine with the front-wheel drive PT Cruiser, standard with Base and Touring models, is a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder model capable of producing 150 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. It can be mated to both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission.
In the middle, a third engine is optional with Touring models. This 2.4-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder with 180 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 210 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm allows a bit more power without the all-out move to the GT.
Alternatively, head straight for the GT model, a PT Cruiser that comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that adds 70 horsepower. This sporty performance model also comes with traction control, antilock brakes and a sport suspension- putting the hot in your rod.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The differences between the wagon and the convertible come about in the trim levels. An additional trim level on the wagon means the standard equipment is quite different, starting somewhat higher in the convertible and ending with a more touring flair, as opposed to the slightly more sport oriented Wagon GT.
Both PT Cruisers, wagon and convertible, seat five and provide 64.2 cubic feet of cargo volume. However, as mentioned, the 2005 PT Cruiser Base convertible offers better basics; touring suspension, power everything, including the soft-top roof and A/C, as well as cloth upholstery on front bucket seats, a split folding rear seat, power windows, an AM/FM/cassette audio system variable-intermittent wipers and a rear defogger. An upgrade to touring adds CD Audio and cruise control as well as fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Finally, the top-level GT comes with leather upholstery, driver’s side height adjustment and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a universal garage-door opener. 17-inch tires round out the offering but chrome alloy costs extra.
Options packages add much more to the PT Cruiser buyer choices. For example, the Chrome Accents group adds bright pedals and a new leather-wrapped steering wheel with Satin Silver painted spokes to all of the features in the previous package (a chrome/body-color front fascia, chrome bodyside moldings, exhaust tip and door lock knobs and front door sill scuff plates with bright-winged logo inserts). Other options include the GPS navigation system, Infinity audio and more.
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