1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 47 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 138 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
