2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Dodge Viper
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Viper (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 352 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 23 kg more than 2003 Dodge Viper.
Because 2003 Dodge Viper 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 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Dodge Viper (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 8277 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 712 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 102.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
