2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 369 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
