1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 571 kg more than 1987 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
