1990 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 65 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 518 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 1990 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 518 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 518 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1990 2009
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1794 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 161 Nm 189 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4150 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 83 mm
Top Speed 194 km/hour 190 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.4 seconds 9.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 57 L