2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 738 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 (311 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 875 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
