2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 420 kg more than 1986 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1986 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 626 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
