2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 185 kg more than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
