2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 228 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
