2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 530 kg more than 1997 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 (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
