2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Ford C-MAX
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford C-MAX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford C-MAX would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 88 kg more than 2003 Ford C-MAX. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford C-MAX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Ford C-MAX | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | C-MAX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
