2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 395 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
