1981 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 400 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
Make | BMW | Chrysler |
Model | 520 | PT Cruiser |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2423 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 224 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 101 mm |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |