2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
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 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 52 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (301 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
