2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2003 Dodge Viper 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 8,195 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Viper (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Viper 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 106 kg more than 2003 Dodge Viper.
Because 2003 Dodge Viper 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 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Dodge Viper (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 8195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 712 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 102.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
