2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
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 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 149 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (371 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 81.4 mm |
| 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 | 1613 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 73 L |
