2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
