1988 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 316 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2424 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 253 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
