2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 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 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2261 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
