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 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 126 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 689 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 (285 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm). 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 | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
