1972 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 168 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Because 1972 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (311 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 520 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1613 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
