2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 483 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
