2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2001 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saturn L 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 80 more horse power than 2001 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 167 kg more than 2001 Saturn L. 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 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn L. 2001 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2001 Saturn L | |
| Make | Chrysler | Saturn |
| Model | PT Cruiser | L |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
