2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 2 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 558 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1315 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |