1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 7 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 Mazda RX-8 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8. 2010 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 64 L |
