I've heard that the Dodge Stratus and the Chrysler Cirrus have the same suspension, is this true? If it is then how do y'all like changing the front struts?

I sold my sisters old 2000 Chrysler Cirrus to her brother in law and I've been helping him fix a few things that it needs.

I was planning on changing all four struts yesterday but we only got one side done. That front strut was such a pain with all the prying bending and hammering I was doing. I ended up getting tired of trying to get the old one out and broke out the Sawzall and cut it in half, then it came right out. That is after cutting off the top bolt with a Dremel because it was so rusted that it wouldn't turn.

Do y'all have any tips for changing the fronts that will make it a little easier? I still have to get the other side.