2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 286 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1307 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 214 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 64 L |