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, both vehicles can yield 150 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 199 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
