1987 BMW 324 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1987 BMW 324. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 151 kg more than 1987 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 324 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 1987 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 214 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 324 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
