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Chrysler PT Cruiser, farewell to thee
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No fanfare, no taps, like death comes a-callin,’ Chrysler snuffed out the Pacifica (but who amongst us really shed a tear over this decision). Chrysler then ceased production of their Crossfire sportscar and gave Aspen the old heave-ho as well (good riddance to these losers). When the Dodge Durango got kicked to the curb, I could have sworn I heard cheers but when the Dodge Magnum station wagon ceased to exist, quite a few urban hearts were TOTALLY shattered! The ragtop version of the PT Cruiser was phased out about a year ago and now, what remains of the PT line will be sent to its final resting place this summer.
I remember when the PT Cruiser first hit the scene big time back in 2000. It was just too cool to be categorized. For me, personally, it was love at first glance. I devoured countless auto mags and knew, when the PT was actually going to hit the dealerships. I could not wait to see this baby in person; I actually counted down the days before its arrival. Since I am a bonafied, card-carrying, old movie buff, for me, the PT brought back that getaway cars era of the 40’s with its design blend of retro meets new-age. I longed to sit behind the wheel of this boxy-like headliner and be transported back to the days when Betty, Joan and Virginia reigned supreme on the big screen.
Like it or loathe it the PT was voted North American Car of the Year in 2001. It was easy on the pockets, a fun drive, a head-turner and not bad on gas. The PT was an overall practical economy car. For those who wanted hot rod credibility, Chrysler added the GT model.
Unfortunately, Chrysler's reliability problems would hamper the PT's reputation in subsequent years. U.S. sales of the PT Cruiser plunged 49 percent last year to 50,910 units, outpacing Chrysler’s 30 percent slide and the 18 percent tumble in the domestic auto market. Deliveries peaked at 144,717 in 2001, according to Autodata Corp. in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Word on the street is that next on the ole chopping block might very well be the Dodge Viper (I will probably shed a boat load of tears over this decision) and the Jeep Commander SUV (no real love lost here).
Oh PT Cruiser, you will be sorely missed, adieu old friend….
--Car Chick
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