2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 128 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (286 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
