2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Chrysler 300 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 2004 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler 300. (332 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler 300 | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | 300 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 59 L |
