2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Because 2003 Opel Speedster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 36 L |
