1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
