2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 790 kg more than 2006 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Mazda | Chrysler |
| Model | 3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
