2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
