2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 626 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 59 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 436 kg more than 1988 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1122 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
