2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 215 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
