2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (350 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 55 kg more than 2012 Nissan 370Z.
Because 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 2012 Nissan 370Z. 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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (374 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4404 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1316 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 72 L |
