2003 Lexus IS vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 333 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Lexus | Chrysler |
| Model | IS | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 57 L |
