2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo 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 (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 519 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Polo |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
