1996 BMW 332 vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (139 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 136 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 332 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1424 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
