Day 1
I was never impressed with the PT Cruiser. It seemed to rely too much on retro styling and little on anything else.
But since the company finally figured out a convertible of the PT might be an affordable and attractive alternative to
other roadsters, I’ve come around to the idea of these hot-rod looking economy cars.
When I first parked the “Dark Plum Pearl Coat” convertible with black top I got my first stare. Absolutely everyone
stares at this car. Compared to every thing else I’ve driven the PT is the most attention getting vehicle by far. I’d
guess it’s the bold color and the stylish top that looks like it’s straight out of a Boyd Coddington shop that is
generating interest.
The other thought I had on the first day was that I hadn’t officially reviewed a convertible before. Living in
Chicago there isn’t a heck of a lot of call for convertible reviews unless it’s summertime. But since the sun is out
and it’s finally warm I guess it’s about time. And let’s tackle that drop-top first. It’s a pretty simple process to go
topless. Turn a roof mounted handle clockwise once then hold the power button and the top automatically retracts into
the back. You can go right then. Or you can get out and put on the stylish boot-top cover.
So I’m off to see how this 220 horsepower 2.4 liter turbo engine performs.
2005 PT Cruiser Convertible GT Turbo
Price: $28,795
220 horsepower, 2.4L I4 DOHC 16V HO Turbo
MPG: 19 city, 26 hwy