2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Kia Carens
To start off, 2012 Kia Carens 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Carens (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Carens weights approximately 266 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 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Carens 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 | 2012 Kia Carens | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Carens |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1631 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
