1981 BMW 628 vs. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser
To start off, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (200 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 BMW 628. (181 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 628. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser weights approximately 94 kg more than 1981 BMW 628. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 628 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 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Panel 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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (271 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 628. (240 Nm). This means 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 628 | 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 628 | Panel Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1564 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
