1984 BMW 316 vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 639 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 1984 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 BMW 316 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 316 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1984 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1767 cc 2213 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 119 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 88.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 171 km/hour 183 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1629 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 57 L