2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Proton 300
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 300 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 140 more horse power than 1996 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 300 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 | 1996 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Proton |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
