2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,399 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 101 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 377 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
