2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 165 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | GTI |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
