2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 9 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 153 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Impala |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 64 L |
