2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 110 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.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
