2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 482 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
