2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 369 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| 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 | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
