2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 420 kg more than 2008 Nissan Maxima.

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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Maxima. (179 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Maxima. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2008 Nissan Maxima
Make Chrysler Nissan
Model PT Cruiser Maxima
Year Released 2009 2008
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 142 HP 0 HP
Torque 214 Nm 179 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 76 mm
Engine Stroke Size 101 mm 73.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 240 km/hour 203 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1910 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4930 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 11.8 L/100km 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 70 L