1990 BMW Z1 vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 308 kg more than 1990 BMW Z1.

Because 1990 BMW Z1 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 Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW Z1.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW Z1 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model Z1 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1990 2006
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2148 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 88.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 1558 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2620 mm