2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,425 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 130 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 327 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (120 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 75 L |
