2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Mazda 818
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 558 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 818 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
