1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 768 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Mazda | Chrysler |
| Model | 323 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
