2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 423 kg more than 1985 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
