2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 941 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Caterham | Chrysler |
| Model | 7 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2620 mm |
