mmarshall

Chrysler doesn't necessarily see it as an LOL issue. They admit that the classic late-30s styling, during the Big-City Gangster era, was the inspiration for the PT Cruiser. So, yes, it is retro styling, as you suggest....and more.

As far as the rest goes, I agree that its engine durability (particularly with the turbo) and overall build quality left something to be desired, but, according to Consumer Reports, its reliability rating, though below average and mediocre at best, was not bad by Chrysler standards.

IS-SV

And LESS, even if it sold in volume at it's peak. Consistently a low quality, low performance vehicle with low safety ratings. LOL is how it was viewed by sophisticated and knowledgable buyers. Chrysler can see it anyway they want (nobody cares) because we know the idiotic management drove the company right into bankruptcy (well documented)

Btw, those up on current events know this car was never "gangsta" in last couple decades, (which has nothing to do w/ 30's styling)

IS-SV

Wow, this confirms it (maybe)...

lex-phil

haha! I knew this thread will feature a Honda even before opening it.

mmarshall

Of course gangsters didn't actually DRIVE the PT Cruiser, but there is no doubt that its styling was inspired by the 30's Gangster-Era. In fact, many of the PT reviews refer to its "Gangsta" styling....you can find them all over the Internet.

IS-SV

A vast majority of the reviews considered styling to be "retro", you can see this by checking multiple reviews on the Internet.

Again and OT for a change, OP is talking about "gangsta" as term is used in this era. Lol, since the CRV and PT don't cut it in last couple of decades.

IS-SV

Exactly (for those less familiar w/term gangsta in 2011), lol.

This must be his transition vehicle for the wannabe Rick Ross.

LexLaw

LMAO....Indeed!

mmarshall

I can understand the PT (at least in image) associated with (even retro) Ganster image, but not the CR-V. Two totally diffferent vehicles. And the CR-V, of course, had something the PT generally didn't.......build quality.

I understand your point (30's-gangster image vs. 2011), but, of course, the PT itself was built throughout 2010, and was only recently discontinued.

Well, unfortunately, the NBA, NFL, and Rap world do have their share of criminals.

Bentleys, though posh, are a little too sporty..........mobsters love the Rolls-Royce flair and those Flying Lady hood ornaments.

IS-SV

Wow seemed like you got it...., until I read the part about PT.
being discontinued in 2010. Btw, the PT was never "gangsta" through it's entire lifecycle (nor was CRV,lol).