2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 74 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
