2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1987 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 471 kg more than 1987 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1987 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
