2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 145 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 2614 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |