1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 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 303 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 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:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Audi | Chrysler |
| Model | A3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 101 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1443 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |
