2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 416 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
