1980 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 371 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. 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 (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 316 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 316 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 57 L |
