2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 250 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
