2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 21 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1420 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 Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
