2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 251 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
