1983 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 431 kg more than 1983 BMW 323.
Because 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 323 | 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 323 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
