1977 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 320 (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 321 kg more than 1977 BMW 320.
Because 1977 BMW 320 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 1977 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1977 BMW 320 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 320 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 320 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
