2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 548 kg more than 1980 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
