2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 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 (180 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 324 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (286 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
