2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 189 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram 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 2008 Dodge Ram. 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Dodge Ram 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. 2008 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ram |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 509 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 6350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 4080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 132 L |
