2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 67 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 83.1 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
