1978 BMW M1 vs. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (216 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 329 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | M1 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 57 L |
