1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 2,429 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 66 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (84 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 348 kg more than 2012 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Polo. (132 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2012 Volkswagen Polo
Make Chrysler Volkswagen
Model PT Cruiser Polo
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 1200 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 84 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Top Speed 180 km/hour 177 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1418 kg 1070 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1682 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2470 mm