2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 8 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 673 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2011 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2011 Volkswagen Routan
Make Chrysler Volkswagen
Model PT Cruiser Routan
Year Released 2003 2011
Body Type Hatchback Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 283 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6350 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 352 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 2038 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 5144 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1953 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 3078 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 78 L