2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 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 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 101 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 64 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
