2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
