1977 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 563 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 BMW 520. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 520 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
