2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 17 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| 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 | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
