2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 8 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 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Frontier. (152 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Frontier.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Frontier. (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Frontier. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
