2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 602 kg more than 1989 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
