2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
