1995 BMW 317 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 70 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 317 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
