2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Jetta 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 (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 243 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
