2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 870 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
