2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Panoz AIV
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 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Panoz AIV 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 330 kg more than 2003 Panoz AIV.
Because 2003 Panoz AIV 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 Panoz AIV. 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 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Panoz AIV 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 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Chrysler | Panoz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | AIV |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
