2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP) has 181 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 945 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
