2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1995 Nissan Serena
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Nissan Serena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Nissan Serena would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1995 Nissan Serena. (74 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1995 Nissan Serena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Nissan Serena weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1995 Nissan Serena 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 1995 Nissan Serena. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Nissan Serena. (145 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Nissan Serena. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1995 Nissan Serena has manual transmission. 1995 Nissan Serena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1995 Nissan Serena | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Serena |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
