2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 77 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 495 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. 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 @ 3600 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
