2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,425 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 47 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 128 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 66 L |
