2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 501 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
