When Chrysler launched the PT Cruiser as a year 2000 model, they might not have seen the huge success story the car would turn into. They built it off the platform for the underwhelming Dodge Neon, and that’s why I’m calling it a redesign.
In January 2001, the PT Cruiser won Car & Driver’s Car of the Year award, and went on to sell nearly 1.4 million units over the next decade. I’d say that’s a pretty impressive return on investment, essentially just from a re-badge and a change in how they “bent the metal.”
Personally, I’m not a huge fan of the car, but I can certainly admire it’s success. The PT Cruiser ushered in a short-lived renaissance for Chrysler, that included the Pacifica crossover and the Chrysler 300. I believe the PT Cruiser also inspired a number of other retro-styled models including the Chevy HHR, SSR, and Camaro, the Toyota FJ Cruiser, the Ford Thunderbird and Mustang, the Chrysler Prowler, and the new retro Dodge Challenger.
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
Tags: cars
[...] Best Redesign Ever: Chrysler PT Cruiser – Nick's Blog [...]
[...] Best Redesign Eνеr: Chrysler PT Cruiser – Nick's Blog [...]