2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Mazda 323
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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 550 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. 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 (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
