2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 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 (151 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 540 kg more than 2005 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
