1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 559 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
| Model | Jetta | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 141 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1424 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 57 L |
