2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 818 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (301 Nm) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
