2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 237 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2008 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 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chrysler Volkswagen
Model PT Cruiser Golf
Year Released 2009 2008
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4550 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.8 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 176 km/hour 185 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.5 seconds 12.1 seconds
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1441 kg 1204 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.7 L/100km 5.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 55 L