1973 BMW 525 vs. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 BMW 525. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 38 kg more than 1973 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 525 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 1973 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 525. (208 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 525 | 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 525 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1418 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
