2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
