2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 541 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
