1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 598 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Fusca 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 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Volkswagen Fusca | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fusca |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
