1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (139 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 225 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.

Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW M3 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model M3 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2303 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 221 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 188 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 4150 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 237 km/hour 190 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 57 L