1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
