2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 158 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2470 mm |
