1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 8 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 2 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 282 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Polo. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
