2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
