1988 BMW 520 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 35 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 520 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1988 2010
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 2427 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 214 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 101 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 195 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.5 seconds 10.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1605 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Consumption City 13.5 L/100km 11.2 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 57 L