2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 768 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | PT Cruiser | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
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 | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2512 mm |