2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 62 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2012 Lexus IS 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS 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 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Chrysler | Lexus |
Model | PT Cruiser | IS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |