The great thing about having 20 years of history is: you are able to figure out the flaws, and get ahead of them. Proper maintenance of the transmission and head gaskets, and you have a reliable, cool classic. Great video.
Spot on !!!!!!!! I've owned my 05 soft top for about 6 years now, Took her to my mechanic at the start, asked & he said " Well, yes, some models were lemons, But seeing as yours is still all kosher all these years later, BUY IT". Did so, have been smart in keeping her all serviced right & the common sense things such as timing belt/pump change @ 150'000 etc & no reason why she wont keep rolling on & on !!!!!!! Happily admit to becoming a PT addict !!!!!!!!!
The joke is on the 'haters', I've owned several top of the line turbocharged PT's that were like new with low miles and never paid over $5,000! Stylish, fun to drive and super comfy. Currently, I have a red 2005 GT HO Vert with a performance exhaust and a 2004 GT with a custom mural paint job. I hope to always drive a PT!❤
Honestly the gt ones are great. I've always loved the retro-styled interior in these, it looks good with the color matched trim and the sunken-in gauges.
I own this exact car. It has 62000 miles and runs great. It , as the car in the video, is in showroom condition. For all it's "flaws", this car is fun to drive and pretty quick. As in the video,they are not everyone's "cup of tea". With all the look alike cars out there, a niche still exists among us enthsiasts for these cars.
fun and practical crossover before they were known as crossovers , the drop tops were quite nice. it was great seeing all the modded ones back in the day as well good video, great camera work, editing and script work , viewers can tell and appreciate all the time, heart and work you put in to these videos
double nostalgia here! The 2006 pt cruiser convertible is my current new old car, my first car to be exact! She is so cute and I’m happy, there are some issues but nothing some maintenance won’t fix. Luckily I have a mechanic dad and so she’s a work in progress! I plan on pimping her out to be the most obnoxious valley girl mobile! 😊
I Love my 05 PT Cruiser❣️ My next car will be a convertible one. I've always Loved standing out from the rest. I hate what the majority of people like. I go out of my way to be different‼️ PT Cruiser suits my character just fine. 😊
I enjoyed the video. Thank you. I have never understood the hate. In my 30’s We had a 2003 Limited. Plum color with wood grain and “chrome clad” wheels. My wife loved the damn thing. You are spot on with the botched marketing comment. We would be approached by older folks with positive comments quite often. It was comfortable and reliable. Not bad to drive cruising on the highway or around town. For whatever reason the turning radius was horrible and the rear drum brakes squeaked like an old dump truck until they warmed up. The rear seats were removable but they weighed a ton. As to the interior cheapness....maybe...definitely built to a price but most of the cars I’ve come across in junk yards still have really nice interiors. With the face lifted cars they removed all of the charm from the interior and left only the cheap! I’d have another one if I needed a car and found a nice one. I think they are reaching the age and scarcity that a really nice car would attract positive attention. I even owned the shamelessly derivative Chevy HHR for a short time that I resurrected from the dead and sold on. It drove very nicely. Better than the PT. Most cars have something to like if you look hard enough... even the Malibu you mentioned. My father-in-law had one as a company car that I rode in several times. An ugly car. But the interior quality was pretty good for a GM car of the time and it never let him down. But damn it was ugly coming and going!
They were right. It was the best first car ever. Everybody wanted to check it out, it went everywhere, everybody wanted to go, surfing, camping, top down, snow rides with the roof off. It was a convertible classified as a truck. It was literally the best thing in the world.
Agreed. I think the best part about the PT was the break from boring design. It strove to be something different, something unique looking in the market. To that end, it was definitely successful. For so many people, it didn't matter that it didn't drive all that well. It was for people who viewed cars as appliances (much like Corolla drivers) but wanted something that looked fun. Nothing wrong with that.
Great analysis. I was in my mid-thirties when these came out. A little older than Chrysler's target audience, a little younger than most of the folks that actually bought 'em. The styling was a breath of fresh air at the time though. There was absolutely nothing similar on the road, and I commend Chrysler for taking that gamble. But as you noted, they sold so well that they quickly became commonplace. Commonplace soon became dated, and it didn't help that even after being facelifted, they still didn't look all that different to most people. Although I never owned one, I knew people who did. They generally seemed to be liked, and a few positively adored them. I don't know anyone who had one back in the day and hated it. That seems to be a newer phenomenon. Anyhow, thanks for another excellent video. My prediction is that in another twenty years, they'll be looked upon much more fondly than they are today
Man...I just gotta say, you’re so level-minded and approach things, even ones you don’t particularly care for, with dignity and respect. I really enjoy your retrospective videos. Please keep them coming.
Great perspective! I checked one out recently for my "Retro Design Car Show" video...I think the design looks much more successful as a hardtop, and the facelift in later years was hugely regrettable. But the packaging is brilliant for the day, and I always applaud when designers take a chance like this. I've often wondered why these garner so much hatred, and I think your theory about mismarketing is correct. The 2002 Thunderbird had the same issue...Strong sales and demand at first, driven by ads of young people...but it quickly waned as it was considered an "old person's car" when it was mostly bought by older buyers. That said I did RENT one years ago, long after these were the hot new thing...And it was pretty awful to drive. Crummy power, horrid turning radius, not great mileage, and I actually BROKE it because the radiator was so low, it snagged a dip in the pavement leaving a gas station.
I've always thought the PT was a neat car, the convertible even more so (granted I'm a convertible lover). Also, decidedly not a fan of Doug nor anything he has to say.
Doug and his urine stained shorts. Can't EVEN watch that guy. Has no social understanding of what his appearance does to people and what an enormous turn off he is. Yuck.
When these were introduced I went to the dealer and had them find me a purple 2001 Touring model. They got it on a dealer trade and when it came in it was completely scratched up. I feel like I dodged a bullet because at the time I didn't know the automatic transmission was junk. I have always wanted the first orange Dream Cruiser they put out there. This GT convertible with a turbo engine and a stick shift would be the perfect combination.
Great vid. I just picked my '05 GT convertible last week, with all the options you mentioned (short of the picnic basket.) It's peppy as all get-out, rides like a dream, and I get compliments on it all the time. Other than my last - a Scion xB... it's my favorite car of any I've owned... and that list is long. :)
My boss (Carl Long) has a blue convertible that he dailied for years. It's unfortunately sat for the better part of 2 years due to high mileage issues catching up with it, but I was shocked with how fun it was to drive. Shockingly fun with breadbasket styling.
I saw two in a Junk yard this past Saturday. Both automatic GT's. I snagged the front sway bar off one for my SRT-4. They are cool cars. PT GT with the 5speed manual is no slouch. They make great sleepers with loads of aftermarket parts. I will have one some day.
Ethan, I struggled for a while to think of something positive to say about the PT Cruiser but then I remembered it did kick off a temporary revival in small utility wagons that culminated in the vastly superior Matrix/Vibe. As far as I know, the PT Cruiser was the first car that offered a fold forward front passenger seat which is an incredibly useful feature when hauling longer items. For some odd reason, despite today's plethora of CUVs and hatches fold-forward front passenger seats have nearly vanished. Finally, don't take this the wrong way but am I the only who feels the Hawaiian shirt was an upgrade to the T-shirt you were wearing?
Dude the PT CRUISER is awesome! I remember when it first came out, it seemed for old people with its retro styling. I look at it now, especially the convertible, and I'm like DANG! That is smooth!
I own my third PT Cruiser meanwhile, and my first PT convertible. I love them! And I love Chrysler for creating such cars. In the 1990s all cars looked the same. If one brand created something new that was sold very well, all brands copied that creation immediately. Chrysler always had the heart and courage to go an own way. (Also with the Chrysler Prowler.) When in the new Millenium the first PTs came out, I felt excited about that new style and it was a must have for me. Thanks for your video!
I recently purchased a 2005 Ford Thunderbird which definitely falls into the retro styling trend of the 2000’s, but I love it. It’s no sports car but it is a fun cruiser. If your having fun who really cares what anyone else thinks of your car.
I’m Gen-X (born in 1967) and I’ve always liked these things, drop top or otherwise. But then I really dig old school rock and roll (as well as Hawaiian shirts), so...yeah, this car was totally aimed at me.
Come to think of it I can’t remember the last time I saw a PT Cruiser on the road. None exist up here in the condition of this one you filmed though! Always nice to see content on something that’s so widely hated that isn’t more hate.
I used to work at Enterprise circa 2001-2002. At the time, the excitement over the PT Cruiser hadn't subsided and Enterprise loved these. They were bought in fleets for well below MSRP, rented out for $100 per day as a "specialty vehicle" (along with the VW New Beetle) and we'd sell them used for more than we bought them for. Huge money makers. Personally, I didn't mind the styling and the practicality was impressive. The biggest weak points were the dismal fuel economy (20mpg average from a Neon engine!?) and the massive turning circle.
So, when the PT first came out, my dad bought one. #327 off the line for 2001. I first thought is that it was ugly AF. Riding in it was comfortable and it felt like a tank at the same time. Once I was old enough to drive, my opinion hadn't changed of the looks. However, driving it for the first time was where my opinion started to change. Chrysler did well in making the PT feel smooth on the road and planted in snow. I started to like it. However, when the Gen 2 came out in 2006, That got my attention. I liked the sleeker look with the interior that felt bigger than 1st gen. You also felt like you were sitting up higher in the 2nd gen compared to 1st get where i felt like my a** was dragging on the street as i was driving. lol. Since 2001, I have personally owned 4 PT's and my dad owned 2. His 2001 lasting 286,000 miles until 2015 when the NY salt finally withered the frame into nothingness. He then bought a 05 which was not maintained well but lasted another 4 years until he couldnt drive anymore. My 1st 2001 PT lasted 234,000 miles. 2nd I bought with 110k and sold at 136k for a crossover that could tow. (worst decision, bought a 13 ford Asscape) Then I bought a 03 PT with 45k miles and in 5 years put 20k on it. Sold it late 2023 and bought the PT I now love more than any other I have owned. Now at age 35, I own a 2006 PT GT convertible with the 5spd manual. Absolutely love this vehicle. It is mint showroom condition with 61,000 original miles. Never letting this PT go as it is the most fun PT I have owned yet and doesnt have any of the ID10T technology in cars today that make cars unaffordable these days. Knobs and buttons for controls and power windows and locks and good radio is all I ever want in a car. Cant get that today anymore. tbh, this PT rides better than any new car today. Bet it will still be around when all these new tech cars and EV's are off the road. lol.
I have owned 2 and just bought another I love them wish they road a little smother but still love them! Worked as a nurse drove 80 miles one way every day loved it. Heard it called a pregnant skate board thought I was going to die laughing!
Woah! I don’t think I’ve ever seen another mega RC PT. I’ve still got mine after twenty years. Looks just like it. I remember as a kid being a big fan of the PT. Then, over time, I just fell away from it. The PT got stale because Chrysler is Chrysler and didn’t let it evolve over time… combined with that good old Chrysler reliability. While I thought she was crazy for doing it, my mama bought a white ‘06 base trim PT convertible about 5 or 6 years ago. I thought it was a terrible waste of money because it had garnered the reputation of being junk. But I have since had to use the car as a long term spare more than once, and I really enjoy it… even with the gremlins and issues that it naturally has. Even with the base engine, it feels spunky and faster than it actually is. It’s no long-distance car, but it’s fun for just a fun car. It’s ugly and goof-looking, but that’s really just it’s charm.
I love my GT convertible! In fact, it looks just like the one in this video. It was my Dad’s and when he could no longer drive, he gave it to me. It was given to me in November of 2021 with a little under 40K miles, my Dad was the original owner. A 2005 with only 40K miles? Yes, it’s in great shape!! I’ve put about 3K miles on it since owning it. It’s only driven on nice sunny days and 90% of the time with the top down. The video is correct about the demographics, they should have marketed it to the older retired crowd. That’s me, it’s my cruise to the golf course or around town car. Absolutely love it!!!
My ex wife and I were almost about to buy a 2010 PT Cruiser for her. But we passed on it. She did have a Malibu Maxx SS though. She hated driving it cause she likes being higher up. But it was the only vehicle in our price range that had at least most of what she wanted. That car was pretty fast though. Sounded good too. Otherwise, I didn't like that car much either
I still have my Ron John PT bought it New on April 22nd 2002 when I was 30,now I'm 49 and want to get a new Paint,and Body job done on my PT,I just LOVE MINE!!!!!!!!!!!
I remember when it came out, I was in the first or second grade and thought it was different, not in a good or bad way. But cool enough. There was a silver one at some audio store on display and my sister and I sat in it. I really liked it at the time. However, as years past, it lost its cool appeal as more older folks drove it, especially middle age women that probably has too many cats/dogs or obsessions for animals, own them and can tell by the amount of decal, bumper stickers they put on their cars.
I think I can explain the appeal of the PT depends on age. I’m 42. Grew up with 80s cars. My uncles were 20+ years older. They grew up with cars made by people who like cars the PT is a flash back to those times.
I own a New Beetle turbo, but had VW not revived the Beetle in the 90s it's very likely I'd be driving a PT instead. I've always liked them. I'll take mine in either purple or that teal-ish green color!
My first car was/still is the 2006 Pt cruiser! I love it. It has its issues but I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. And I’m the 2nd owner. Pt cruisers all the way!
I remember when Common Wealth Dodge in Louisville was charging $15,000 over sticker for the first year PT Cruiser and people where waiting in line to buy them.
I still like the old car look.. l really like the black with flames look ...I just don't get all the hate it gets ...smh..SMH.. just got a 05 I'm keeping it and doing some restoration on it to just cruise in on the weekends...great video!!
I just bought a 2007 convertible and the only problem is I can't see it from the outside when l'm driving it. I have a 2007 four door GT that's been sitting for a few years. Gotta get it going.
Do you like any convertibles? Have you ever had a convertible? Some people just aren't convertible people. I suspect they don't like [the perception of] being looked at by everyone.
@@felixf5211 Just trying to figure it out. You watched a whole video review of the PR Cruiser convertible and don’t even like it. There are other videos for the wagon. You didn’t answer if you’ve owned a vert so I assume you haven’t. Just not a convertible person.
@@ThinkDifferentish Why do I suspect that you own this ugly thing? So defensive. Live and let live. As long as you don't mind car folks laughing as it drives by. Just so you understand, we won't be speaking again.
@@felixf5211 Na. Don’t own it but think it would be good for my parents. Can flat tow it on an RV too which is what they need. I have a Corvette convertible and a old Bronco with a soft top. Wife has a Lexus SC430 hardtop convertible. We are convertible people.
Great looking video Ethan....I've never hated on the PT Cruiser but then I wouldn't call myself a fan either. We never got the convertible or the woody here in the UK which may/may not have helped because the poor gas mileage and sloppy handling were enough to condemn it and as you say, the novelty of the retro styling wore off pretty quickly. That said, I have a friend in California who still hankers after one to this day (although his girlfriend is rather less keen!)...excellent work buddy, keep 'em coming...PS... Doug Demuro is just wrong...not about anything in particular, he's just....wrong...
My belief was they were hoping for the same reaction that the New Beetle got... my wife had a yellow 2000 New Beetle... I like the styling as i like retro mobiles... the styling of the convertible was something similar to the vw Cabrio, which always was popular, we also had on 01 of those... if i was to buy one it would be a fully loaded woodie model... but i drove one when new as a rental and it was not impressive... the neon architecture it was based on did it no favors. I drove this exact convertible my first day working at a chrysler dealership... still not impressed... ive also witnessed the reliability issues and one of my wifes friends had one burn to the ground, somewhat common actually. As they aged the reliability of chrysler drove people away and not wanting a new one, which the refresh didn't do anything for me personally
Ethan, thank you for the measured review. I personally could not find much to like about the PT wagons. I got stuck driving one twice while I waited for my mechanic to fix my daily driver. Aesthetically, it's an odd-looking car, seating position was uncomfortable and rear-view visibility, blind spots were challenging for me. On the plus side, it did handle well on the road and had decent headroom for someone who is 6'4". The convertible does look sportier, but it's still a hard pass. Like you said, Chrysler missed the mark with their target demographic marketing. I can see these cars appealing to baby boomers.
I had a pt 4 ten years and it was the best car I ever had,with service and a couple of new parts was not a hole lot of money spent on it. And now I’m looking 4 a convertible that’s well look after,wish me luck🐨🇦🇺🇦🇺
I love it! It falls under the category of so bad you can't help but love it. It's similar to the Nissan Murano Cross Cabriolet. Yes, it's ugly, foul, poorly conceived, and terrible to drive every day, but it has its own unique quirks to it that make up for its massive shortcomings. In a sea of bland look-alike crossovers, finding a vehicle with character is something that I appreciate
I find it interesting that the New Beetle doesn't seem to get the same level of scorn. It's just a MkIV Golf (decent driving car, but not a high water mark of quality) with most of the practicality stripped out. The PT was absolutely flawed, but at least it was a sensible little wagon.
Love my Gold 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. I was going through a divorce at 3 months shy of turning 50, and took a lot of therapy rides with it. My daughter loved it.I gave friends and family rides in it. Another nurse rode with me to Marshfield,WI to take a respiratory class. We had stayed overnight, and there for whole day class. When she got home she said I am going to tell my kids I rode in a PT Cruiser! I am still driving it. Would I buy another ?no. If possible would get another for parts. It is getting rusty had driver floor board put in. I had to check and air tires every three days. If there was any neglect of checking my cars previously, I made up for it with this car. Went from chrome to steel rims and kept air in.Transmission went out at 79,000 in Osceola, Iowa, so my thrifty 194.00 trip from WI to kansas city, mo. was quite costly. It was 2,250.00 and done in Indianola,Iowa. Plus had to pay for apple inn where stayed charge.In 2015 the driver tire rod went out when on way to family reunion, scary was part way on driving path and luckily another lane. Called tow and moved out to passenger and directed traffic to keep moving. Some areas are hard to work on, like putting in a water pump, the light switch is easy. The keyless entry malfunctioned and was honking all the time til fixed. Was so glad to get the loaner car! Have had break pads rotor, and calipers , often. Oil change every 3,000 miles. This was fun video to watch. Would have loved to ride in the convertible. Oh ,and there was room in the PT to haul a 58 inch Roku onn TV in it during black Friday special at Walmart.
I imagine if PT Cruiser have the reliability of the Honda or Toyota, it would be regarded as a hidden gem. I could see it being converted to a hybrid or even electric vehicle making it useful-cool... P.S. Loving the chopped and screwed Heavy D theme song
Maybe, one of the big initial wins for them was that there weren't cars shaped like it at the time, so it was really fresh when it was released. Then maybe a lot of other companies copied some of the design elements and put them in better vehicles.
I have a 2005 convertible pt cruiser I bought it about 4 years ago with 45,000 miles and now it has 103k cuz I’ve taken that thing everywhere and the only problem I’ve ever had was the radiator I had to change about a year ago and that’s it
The PT Cruiser, especially the convertible, always remind me of a child’s ride-on toy that got stretched to real car size. It even has a chunky plastic dash, though at least the gauges aren’t stickers
2005 convertible GT(ho) here. It was my son's, a little rough, but runs and drives. Sadly, my son passed recently and the car is at his grandparents place in Cocoa FL. Contact me if you're interested in the car.
Always loved the convertible in the off white. I think the hard top would have been cooler in a full size vehicle. Just a bit odd in the small form size.
No one is talking about the slowed down promo song at the end?!? That was hilarious! CHRYSLER PEE TEEEE EEEEE eeeee In all seriousness, these really aren't that bad. My grandfather got one as a birthday gift in 1999 because he loved the retro styling so much. When it got totaled a couple years ago, he was utterly devastated. Super practical, a decent interior, easy to park (minus the horrid turning radius), and good on gas! I don't know if these will ever make a full comeback, but I know there will always be PT diehards so long as there are people who remember it in the first place. Wait...am I one of them? 😳
I Really like your video i wana share my story about pt crusier . two years ago i fall in love of Pt crusier as i like the style and interior of this car so i baught it from somebody it looks in good shape it was winter time and in western canada we have extream winter so first thing i have to change battery then i change timing belt and water pump after one month it was december and heater core burnt and coolant was leaking coming inside on the floor so it was really bad experience car start over heat so i spend anothrr thousand doller to fix heater core after that i change exaust then breaks and rutors then i change all four tires so you can say i already spend 4k on this car i thought car will be fine but next winter rediator start leaking and radiotor fan burnt then i baught both radiator fan and radiotor so that much shit i been through i hope i don't have to spend anymore money on it sick and tired i still love it but how can you trust a car like this so i would say its so poor quality so many problems thid car have beforr you buy you should know that
I think the problem with it was, yes the marketing but the vehicle itself was built on the neon platform and it was very very dull to drive. It was the price point they were worried about.
I think it’s a good looking convertible especially when they are in near mint condition but I think most men back then thought it was too girly and slow.
I love my 2005 black convertable i just cant wait for the insurace to come get it and make it beautiful again yes someone hit me on the passenger tire side.
The great thing about having 20 years of history is: you are able to figure out the flaws, and get ahead of them. Proper maintenance of the transmission and head gaskets, and you have a reliable, cool classic. Great video.
Spot on !!!!!!!!
I've owned my 05 soft top for about 6 years now, Took her to my mechanic at the start, asked & he said " Well, yes, some models were lemons, But seeing as yours is still all kosher all these years later, BUY IT".
Did so, have been smart in keeping her all serviced right & the common sense things such as timing belt/pump change @ 150'000 etc & no reason why she wont keep rolling on & on !!!!!!!
Happily admit to becoming a PT addict !!!!!!!!!
Thanks to the bad Rap I was able to buy one at a low price. And love it !!!
Pt cruisers aren’t cool imo. Ugliest cars on the toad
The joke is on the 'haters', I've owned several top of the line turbocharged PT's that were like new with low miles and never paid over $5,000!
Stylish, fun to drive and super comfy.
Currently, I have a red 2005 GT HO Vert with a performance exhaust and a 2004 GT with a custom mural paint job.
I hope to always drive a PT!❤
Honestly the gt ones are great.
I've always loved the retro-styled interior in these, it looks good with the color matched trim and the sunken-in gauges.
I totally dig the convertible. Would have definitely wanted one when they came out. And I am one of those 80s born youngsters they were targeting.
I own a 2007 GT turbo convertible in pastel yellow. I love it.
I own this exact car. It has 62000 miles and runs great. It , as the car in the video, is in showroom condition. For all it's "flaws", this car is fun to drive and pretty quick. As in the video,they are not everyone's "cup of tea". With all the look alike cars out there, a niche still exists among us enthsiasts for these cars.
fun and practical crossover before they were known as crossovers , the drop tops were quite nice. it was great seeing all the modded ones back in the day as well
good video, great camera work, editing and script work , viewers can tell and appreciate all the time, heart and work you put in to these videos
double nostalgia here! The 2006 pt cruiser convertible is my current new old car, my first car to be exact! She is so cute and I’m happy, there are some issues but nothing some maintenance won’t fix. Luckily I have a mechanic dad and so she’s a work in progress! I plan on pimping her out to be the most obnoxious valley girl mobile! 😊
I just bought an 05 GT convertible two days ago on April 27. It needed new plugs to run right, I drove it two hours home with the top down!!!!
I have the same one but Gold I love it and still driving it 17 years later
Now hit
105,000 miles on it 🤘🏽🔥😎
I Love my 05 PT Cruiser❣️ My next car will be a convertible one. I've always Loved standing out from the rest. I hate what the majority of people like. I go out of my way to be different‼️ PT Cruiser suits my character just fine. 😊
We have an O5 GT convertible that'll probably be available soon.
I enjoyed the video. Thank you. I have never understood the hate. In my 30’s We had a 2003 Limited. Plum color with wood grain and “chrome clad” wheels. My wife loved the damn thing. You are spot on with the botched marketing comment. We would be approached by older folks with positive comments quite often. It was comfortable and reliable. Not bad to drive cruising on the highway or around town. For whatever reason the turning radius was horrible and the rear drum brakes squeaked like an old dump truck until they warmed up. The rear seats were removable but they weighed a ton. As to the interior cheapness....maybe...definitely built to a price but most of the cars I’ve come across in junk yards still have really nice interiors. With the face lifted cars they removed all of the charm from the interior and left only the cheap! I’d have another one if I needed a car and found a nice one. I think they are reaching the age and scarcity that a really nice car would attract positive attention. I even owned the shamelessly derivative Chevy HHR for a short time that I resurrected from the dead and sold on. It drove very nicely. Better than the PT.
Most cars have something to like if you look hard enough... even the Malibu you mentioned. My father-in-law had one as a company car that I rode in several times. An ugly car. But the interior quality was pretty good for a GM car of the time and it never let him down. But damn it was ugly coming and going!
They were right. It was the best first car ever. Everybody wanted to check it out, it went everywhere, everybody wanted to go, surfing, camping, top down, snow rides with the roof off. It was a convertible classified as a truck. It was literally the best thing in the world.
Agreed. I think the best part about the PT was the break from boring design. It strove to be something different, something unique looking in the market. To that end, it was definitely successful. For so many people, it didn't matter that it didn't drive all that well. It was for people who viewed cars as appliances (much like Corolla drivers) but wanted something that looked fun. Nothing wrong with that.
The Kia Soul fits that slot today. Perky, funky design covering a very unremarkable car, driving-wise.
Great analysis. I was in my mid-thirties when these came out. A little older than Chrysler's target audience, a little younger than most of the folks that actually bought 'em. The styling was a breath of fresh air at the time though. There was absolutely nothing similar on the road, and I commend Chrysler for taking that gamble. But as you noted, they sold so well that they quickly became commonplace. Commonplace soon became dated, and it didn't help that even after being facelifted, they still didn't look all that different to most people. Although I never owned one, I knew people who did. They generally seemed to be liked, and a few positively adored them. I don't know anyone who had one back in the day and hated it. That seems to be a newer phenomenon. Anyhow, thanks for another excellent video. My prediction is that in another twenty years, they'll be looked upon much more fondly than they are today
Thanks for keeping an open mind and taking one for the team on this particular review!
Great video! You actually made me want a PT Cruiser.
Man...I just gotta say, you’re so level-minded and approach things, even ones you don’t particularly care for, with dignity and respect. I really enjoy your retrospective videos. Please keep them coming.
Great perspective!
I checked one out recently for my "Retro Design Car Show" video...I think the design looks much more successful as a hardtop, and the facelift in later years was hugely regrettable. But the packaging is brilliant for the day, and I always applaud when designers take a chance like this.
I've often wondered why these garner so much hatred, and I think your theory about mismarketing is correct.
The 2002 Thunderbird had the same issue...Strong sales and demand at first, driven by ads of young people...but it quickly waned as it was considered an "old person's car" when it was mostly bought by older buyers.
That said I did RENT one years ago, long after these were the hot new thing...And it was pretty awful to drive. Crummy power, horrid turning radius,
not great mileage, and I actually BROKE it because the radiator was so low, it snagged a dip in the pavement leaving a gas station.
I've always thought the PT was a neat car, the convertible even more so (granted I'm a convertible lover). Also, decidedly not a fan of Doug nor anything he has to say.
Doug looks like he’s always wearing the last outfit he has in the closet while washing everything else. I don’t understand his massive appeal either.
@@louisc76 two shirts 😂
Doug and his urine stained shorts. Can't EVEN watch that guy. Has no social understanding of what his appearance does to people and what an enormous turn off he is. Yuck.
@@oliverdelgado6952 Doug looks incredibly dehydrated all the time. And, strangely in need of a fanny pack.
When these were introduced I went to the dealer and had them find me a purple 2001 Touring model. They got it on a dealer trade and when it came in it was completely scratched up. I feel like I dodged a bullet because at the time I didn't know the automatic transmission was junk. I have always wanted the first orange Dream Cruiser they put out there. This GT convertible with a turbo engine and a stick shift would be the perfect combination.
Sold my 2007 pt cruiser convertible last year, was a blast to drive!
Your camera skills can make even a PT Cruiser look good!
Thank you for the kind words!! :) :) :)
When they 1st came out, they were good looking. That didn’t last long though.
@@IraqVet0608
???? No disrespect intended, But......
Makes no sense.
My 05 soft top turns heads daily!!!!!!
I always wished they had been full size like a Durango. With some towing capacity.
That would have been cool.
Great vid.
I just picked my '05 GT convertible last week, with all the options you mentioned (short of the picnic basket.) It's peppy as all get-out, rides like a dream, and I get compliments on it all the time. Other than my last - a Scion xB... it's my favorite car of any I've owned... and that list is long. :)
🔥🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽😎
My boss (Carl Long) has a blue convertible that he dailied for years.
It's unfortunately sat for the better part of 2 years due to high mileage issues catching up with it, but I was shocked with how fun it was to drive.
Shockingly fun with breadbasket styling.
I saw two in a Junk yard this past Saturday. Both automatic GT's. I snagged the front sway bar off one for my SRT-4.
They are cool cars. PT GT with the 5speed manual is no slouch. They make great sleepers with loads of aftermarket parts.
I will have one some day.
Ethan, I struggled for a while to think of something positive to say about the PT Cruiser but then I remembered it did kick off a temporary revival in small utility wagons that culminated in the vastly superior Matrix/Vibe. As far as I know, the PT Cruiser was the first car that offered a fold forward front passenger seat which is an incredibly useful feature when hauling longer items. For some odd reason, despite today's plethora of CUVs and hatches fold-forward front passenger seats have nearly vanished. Finally, don't take this the wrong way but am I the only who feels the Hawaiian shirt was an upgrade to the T-shirt you were wearing?
This is a great review with very sensible comments and thoughts. I actually like the Convertible - it's different, cute, fun - what's not to love?
My grandfather drives a HHR and is always getting mistaken for a PT Cruiser
Ikr I had to look it up.
Same designer.
Dude the PT CRUISER is awesome! I remember when it first came out, it seemed for old people with its retro styling. I look at it now, especially the convertible, and I'm like DANG! That is smooth!
I own my third PT Cruiser meanwhile, and my first PT convertible. I love them! And I love Chrysler for creating such cars. In the 1990s all cars looked the same. If one brand created something new that was sold very well, all brands copied that creation immediately. Chrysler always had the heart and courage to go an own way. (Also with the Chrysler Prowler.) When in the new Millenium the first PTs came out, I felt excited about that new style and it was a must have for me. Thanks for your video!
I recently purchased a 2005 Ford Thunderbird which definitely falls into the retro styling trend of the 2000’s, but I love it. It’s no sports car but it is a fun cruiser. If your having fun who really cares what anyone else thinks of your car.
If only this one had the wood paneling. Then it would be the dopest PT in all the land!
I’m Gen-X (born in 1967) and I’ve always liked these things, drop top or otherwise. But then I really dig old school rock and roll (as well as Hawaiian shirts), so...yeah, this car was totally aimed at me.
I openly love my two 2006 PT Cruisers! Cool Vanilla with same color rag top! 75 and loving it for almost 25 years!
I have an 03 Dream Cruiser Turbo and I love it so much.
Come to think of it I can’t remember the last time I saw a PT Cruiser on the road. None exist up here in the condition of this one you filmed though! Always nice to see content on something that’s so widely hated that isn’t more hate.
When I was younger a friend’s mom had a convertible one of these in purple. I remember riding in the back with the top down going to see a movie.
I used to work at Enterprise circa 2001-2002. At the time, the excitement over the PT Cruiser hadn't subsided and Enterprise loved these. They were bought in fleets for well below MSRP, rented out for $100 per day as a "specialty vehicle" (along with the VW New Beetle) and we'd sell them used for more than we bought them for. Huge money makers.
Personally, I didn't mind the styling and the practicality was impressive. The biggest weak points were the dismal fuel economy (20mpg average from a Neon engine!?) and the massive turning circle.
So, when the PT first came out, my dad bought one. #327 off the line for 2001. I first thought is that it was ugly AF. Riding in it was comfortable and it felt like a tank at the same time. Once I was old enough to drive, my opinion hadn't changed of the looks. However, driving it for the first time was where my opinion started to change. Chrysler did well in making the PT feel smooth on the road and planted in snow. I started to like it. However, when the Gen 2 came out in 2006, That got my attention. I liked the sleeker look with the interior that felt bigger than 1st gen. You also felt like you were sitting up higher in the 2nd gen compared to 1st get where i felt like my a** was dragging on the street as i was driving. lol.
Since 2001, I have personally owned 4 PT's and my dad owned 2. His 2001 lasting 286,000 miles until 2015 when the NY salt finally withered the frame into nothingness. He then bought a 05 which was not maintained well but lasted another 4 years until he couldnt drive anymore. My 1st 2001 PT lasted 234,000 miles. 2nd I bought with 110k and sold at 136k for a crossover that could tow. (worst decision, bought a 13 ford Asscape) Then I bought a 03 PT with 45k miles and in 5 years put 20k on it. Sold it late 2023 and bought the PT I now love more than any other I have owned.
Now at age 35, I own a 2006 PT GT convertible with the 5spd manual. Absolutely love this vehicle. It is mint showroom condition with 61,000 original miles. Never letting this PT go as it is the most fun PT I have owned yet and doesnt have any of the ID10T technology in cars today that make cars unaffordable these days. Knobs and buttons for controls and power windows and locks and good radio is all I ever want in a car. Cant get that today anymore. tbh, this PT rides better than any new car today. Bet it will still be around when all these new tech cars and EV's are off the road. lol.
I have owned 2 and just bought another I love them wish they road a little smother but still love them! Worked as a nurse drove 80 miles one way every day loved it. Heard it called a pregnant skate board thought I was going to die laughing!
Hahaha pregnant skateboard. That's great!!
I think the Pt. Cruiser is pretty classy. I always liked the way they look. I own a used one right now. I love it.
Woah! I don’t think I’ve ever seen another mega RC PT. I’ve still got mine after twenty years. Looks just like it.
I remember as a kid being a big fan of the PT. Then, over time, I just fell away from it. The PT got stale because Chrysler is Chrysler and didn’t let it evolve over time… combined with that good old Chrysler reliability.
While I thought she was crazy for doing it, my mama bought a white ‘06 base trim PT convertible about 5 or 6 years ago. I thought it was a terrible waste of money because it had garnered the reputation of being junk. But I have since had to use the car as a long term spare more than once, and I really enjoy it… even with the gremlins and issues that it naturally has. Even with the base engine, it feels spunky and faster than it actually is. It’s no long-distance car, but it’s fun for just a fun car. It’s ugly and goof-looking, but that’s really just it’s charm.
I love my GT convertible! In fact, it looks just like the one in this video. It was my Dad’s and when he could no longer drive, he gave it to me. It was given to me in November of 2021 with a little under 40K miles, my Dad was the original owner. A 2005 with only 40K miles? Yes, it’s in great shape!! I’ve put about 3K miles on it since owning it. It’s only driven on nice sunny days and 90% of the time with the top down. The video is correct about the demographics, they should have marketed it to the older retired crowd. That’s me, it’s my cruise to the golf course or around town car. Absolutely love it!!!
My ex wife and I were almost about to buy a 2010 PT Cruiser for her. But we passed on it. She did have a Malibu Maxx SS though. She hated driving it cause she likes being higher up. But it was the only vehicle in our price range that had at least most of what she wanted. That car was pretty fast though. Sounded good too. Otherwise, I didn't like that car much either
I still have my Ron John PT bought it New on April 22nd 2002 when I was 30,now I'm 49 and want to get a new Paint,and Body job done on my PT,I just LOVE MINE!!!!!!!!!!!
I remember when it came out, I was in the first or second grade and thought it was different, not in a good or bad way. But cool enough. There was a silver one at some audio store on display and my sister and I sat in it. I really liked it at the time. However, as years past, it lost its cool appeal as more older folks drove it, especially middle age women that probably has too many cats/dogs or obsessions for animals, own them and can tell by the amount of decal, bumper stickers they put on their cars.
I think I can explain the appeal of the PT depends on age. I’m 42. Grew up with 80s cars. My uncles were 20+ years older. They grew up with cars made by people who like cars the PT is a flash back to those times.
I own a New Beetle turbo, but had VW not revived the Beetle in the 90s it's very likely I'd be driving a PT instead. I've always liked them. I'll take mine in either purple or that teal-ish green color!
My first car was/still is the 2006 Pt cruiser! I love it. It has its issues but I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. And I’m the 2nd owner. Pt cruisers all the way!
Those rims are shockingly cool! A bigger size version could look really cool on many muscle cars!
*sighs* I hope they bring it back. I would snatch up a black gt convertible so damn fast!!! I have regular 4 speed lilac convertible. I love it 😀 😍 ❤️
I remember when Common Wealth Dodge in Louisville was charging $15,000 over sticker for the first year PT Cruiser and people where waiting in line to buy them.
I have to admit. There was a time that I was tempted to buy a PT Cruiser. In the end, I purchased a Corolla. Maybe it was for the best. 🤷🏾♂️
I’ve never been in a pt cruiser that had a window or something not work they last
I still drive one of these, mostly, mechanics just express admiration when they see it.
I like that backend i would enjoy staring at it on a vacation drive
Also the engine bay is very crammed making it not so nice to work on. I heard changing a timing belt is really difficult.
the convertible actually not dated at all to me, ...
I like them. The ones that I know of have been reliable and enjoyable for their owners.
I still like the old car look.. l really like the black with flames look ...I just don't get all the hate it gets ...smh..SMH.. just got a 05 I'm keeping it and doing some restoration on it to just cruise in on the weekends...great video!!
I just bought a 2007 convertible and the only problem is I can't see it from the outside when l'm driving it. I have a 2007 four door GT that's been sitting for a few years. Gotta get it going.
I was once going to buy a 06 cruiser convertible back in the day, had a neighbor with a woody Cruiser that probably had an impact on me liking them
I own a red hardtop base model and a red convertible GT model and I love both of them!
I liked the PT Cruiser. The convertible, OTOH, really isn't my thing based solely on its styling.
Do you like any convertibles? Have you ever had a convertible? Some people just aren't convertible people. I suspect they don't like [the perception of] being looked at by everyone.
@@ThinkDifferentish I love convertibles, especially sports cars. Why does my dislike of this car's styling stir something in you? Odd.
@@felixf5211 Just trying to figure it out. You watched a whole video review of the PR Cruiser convertible and don’t even like it. There are other videos for the wagon. You didn’t answer if you’ve owned a vert so I assume you haven’t. Just not a convertible person.
@@ThinkDifferentish Why do I suspect that you own this ugly thing? So defensive. Live and let live. As long as you don't mind car folks laughing as it drives by. Just so you understand, we won't be speaking again.
@@felixf5211 Na. Don’t own it but think it would be good for my parents. Can flat tow it on an RV too which is what they need. I have a Corvette convertible and a old Bronco with a soft top. Wife has a Lexus SC430 hardtop convertible. We are convertible people.
PT Cruiser is notoriously everywhere in Southern California.
.
.
.
It's soo cool if one day you can review my LS400...
Love it and never leave it, have a new Beamer now and I still dream about her
2.4 turbo, mint condiion, in this color and convertible/ Man it looks good. The two-door body really suits it
if they had offered a hard top it would be the direct competition of the new mini Cooper
I think it looks much better with the two big doors. The proportions are better.
I have an 05 PG GT convertible 5 speed with coilovers, wheels, some go fast parts... I love the car.
Great looking video Ethan....I've never hated on the PT Cruiser but then I wouldn't call myself a fan either. We never got the convertible or the woody here in the UK which may/may not have helped because the poor gas mileage and sloppy handling were enough to condemn it and as you say, the novelty of the retro styling wore off pretty quickly. That said, I have a friend in California who still hankers after one to this day (although his girlfriend is rather less keen!)...excellent work buddy, keep 'em coming...PS... Doug Demuro is just wrong...not about anything in particular, he's just....wrong...
They should have made a RWD 2 door coupe with a V8.
My belief was they were hoping for the same reaction that the New Beetle got... my wife had a yellow 2000 New Beetle... I like the styling as i like retro mobiles... the styling of the convertible was something similar to the vw Cabrio, which always was popular, we also had on 01 of those... if i was to buy one it would be a fully loaded woodie model... but i drove one when new as a rental and it was not impressive... the neon architecture it was based on did it no favors. I drove this exact convertible my first day working at a chrysler dealership... still not impressed... ive also witnessed the reliability issues and one of my wifes friends had one burn to the ground, somewhat common actually. As they aged the reliability of chrysler drove people away and not wanting a new one, which the refresh didn't do anything for me personally
Ethan, thank you for the measured review. I personally could not find much to like about the PT wagons. I got stuck driving one twice while I waited for my mechanic to fix my daily driver. Aesthetically, it's an odd-looking car, seating position was uncomfortable and rear-view visibility, blind spots were challenging for me. On the plus side, it did handle well on the road and had decent headroom for someone who is 6'4". The convertible does look sportier, but it's still a hard pass. Like you said, Chrysler missed the mark with their target demographic marketing. I can see these cars appealing to baby boomers.
I had a pt 4 ten years and it was the best car I ever had,with service and a couple of new parts was not a hole lot of money spent on it.
And now I’m looking 4 a convertible that’s well look after,wish me luck🐨🇦🇺🇦🇺
There wasnt an HHR or Pontiac Vibe out when this dropped. So what were your options for an American Hatchback...not wagon, hatch.
I love it! It falls under the category of so bad you can't help but love it. It's similar to the Nissan Murano Cross Cabriolet. Yes, it's ugly, foul, poorly conceived, and terrible to drive every day, but it has its own unique quirks to it that make up for its massive shortcomings. In a sea of bland look-alike crossovers, finding a vehicle with character is something that I appreciate
I find it interesting that the New Beetle doesn't seem to get the same level of scorn. It's just a MkIV Golf (decent driving car, but not a high water mark of quality) with most of the practicality stripped out. The PT was absolutely flawed, but at least it was a sensible little wagon.
Love my Gold 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. I was going through a divorce at 3 months shy of turning 50, and took a lot of therapy rides with it. My daughter loved it.I gave friends and family rides in it. Another nurse rode with me to Marshfield,WI to take a respiratory class. We had stayed overnight, and there for whole day class. When she got home she said I am going to tell my kids I rode in a PT Cruiser! I am still driving it. Would I buy another ?no. If possible would get another for parts. It is getting rusty had driver floor board put in. I had to check and air tires every three days. If there was any neglect of checking my cars previously, I made up for it with this car. Went from chrome to steel rims and kept air in.Transmission went out at 79,000 in Osceola, Iowa, so my thrifty 194.00 trip from WI to kansas city, mo. was quite costly. It was 2,250.00 and done in Indianola,Iowa. Plus had to pay for apple inn where stayed charge.In 2015 the driver tire rod went out when on way to family reunion, scary was part way on driving path and luckily another lane. Called tow and moved out to passenger and directed traffic to keep moving. Some areas are hard to work on, like putting in a water pump, the light switch is easy. The keyless entry malfunctioned and was honking all the time til fixed. Was so glad to get the loaner car! Have had break pads rotor, and calipers , often. Oil change every 3,000 miles. This was fun video to watch. Would have loved to ride in the convertible. Oh ,and there was room in the PT to haul a 58 inch Roku onn TV in it during black Friday special at Walmart.
I imagine if PT Cruiser have the reliability of the Honda or Toyota, it would be regarded as a hidden gem. I could see it being converted to a hybrid or even electric vehicle making it useful-cool... P.S. Loving the chopped and screwed Heavy D theme song
Maybe, one of the big initial wins for them was that there weren't cars shaped like it at the time, so it was really fresh when it was released. Then maybe a lot of other companies copied some of the design elements and put them in better vehicles.
well its 2022 and i'm about to buy one for 14 thousand. I love them always have. I think they are a fun, cute little car.
I remember my parents bought 1, Chrysler bought it back due to a wiring problem! Then they bought the Jeep Compass!
Another good video. Like you, it wasn't for me, but I never hated it.
Best car ever
0:47 lovely used soundtrack
5-30-2021
I have a 2005 convertible pt cruiser I bought it about 4 years ago with 45,000 miles and now it has 103k cuz I’ve taken that thing everywhere and the only problem I’ve ever had was the radiator I had to change about a year ago and that’s it
The PT Cruiser, especially the convertible, always remind me of a child’s ride-on toy that got stretched to real car size. It even has a chunky plastic dash, though at least the gauges aren’t stickers
2005 convertible GT(ho) here. It was my son's, a little rough, but runs and drives. Sadly, my son passed recently and the car is at his grandparents place in Cocoa FL. Contact me if you're interested in the car.
Always loved the convertible in the off white. I think the hard top would have been cooler in a full size vehicle. Just a bit odd in the small form size.
I own a 2008 rn and I love it. Pt is a low key sleeper
Great video Ethan
Hey , do you know where I can buy the cylinder of the folding top? I only found the pump but i need those cylinders 😭
No one is talking about the slowed down promo song at the end?!? That was hilarious!
CHRYSLER
PEE TEEEE EEEEE eeeee
In all seriousness, these really aren't that bad. My grandfather got one as a birthday gift in 1999 because he loved the retro styling so much. When it got totaled a couple years ago, he was utterly devastated. Super practical, a decent interior, easy to park (minus the horrid turning radius), and good on gas! I don't know if these will ever make a full comeback, but I know there will always be PT diehards so long as there are people who remember it in the first place. Wait...am I one of them? 😳
I literally got that vibe of meta nostalgia seconds before he mentioned it, I got crack up big time...
Shame it was not built on the crossfire platform.
I Really like your video i wana share my story about pt crusier . two years ago i fall in love of Pt crusier as i like the style and interior of this car so i baught it from somebody it looks in good shape it was winter time and in western canada we have extream winter so first thing i have to change battery then i change timing belt and water pump after one month it was december and heater core burnt and coolant was leaking coming inside on the floor so it was really bad experience car start over heat so i spend anothrr thousand doller to fix heater core after that i change exaust then breaks and rutors then i change all four tires so you can say i already spend 4k on this car i thought car will be fine but next winter rediator start leaking and radiotor fan burnt then i baught both radiator fan and radiotor so that much shit i been through i hope i don't have to spend anymore money on it sick and tired i still love it but how can you trust a car like this so i would say its so poor quality so many problems thid car have beforr you buy you should know that
I think the problem with it was, yes the marketing but the vehicle itself was built on the neon platform and it was very very dull to drive. It was the price point they were worried about.
Always liked these though if I ever was to get one, definitely the turbo GT. The convertible looks quaint.
I think it’s a good looking convertible especially when they are in near mint condition but I think most men back then thought it was too girly and slow.
I love my 2005 black convertable i just cant wait for the insurace to come get it and make it beautiful again yes someone hit me on the passenger tire side.
Hey Ethan, when will we hear new music from you? I‘m a big fan.