2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 202 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
