2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Dodge Stratus
To start off, 2003 Dodge Stratus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Stratus (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 249 kg more than 2003 Dodge Stratus.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Stratus. 2003 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Dodge Stratus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Stratus |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 61 L |
