2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 437 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 85 L |
