1974 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 440 kg more than 1974 BMW 3.
Because 1974 BMW 3 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
