2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 156 kg more than 2004 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
