2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 323 kg more than 2003 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
