2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 389 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
