2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 280 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
