2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 195 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 2009 Lexus IS 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 2009 Lexus IS. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lexus |
| Model | PT Cruiser | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 11.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
