2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 82 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 341 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
