2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2010 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2010 Dodge Nitro is newer by 7 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2010 Dodge Nitro. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2010 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 298 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2010 Dodge Nitro 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 2010 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Dodge Nitro. (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2010 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1803 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2764 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 74 L |
