2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 320 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 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 441 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 97 L |
