2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
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 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 49 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1441 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 76 L |
