2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 60 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
