1996 BMW 523 vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. 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 (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 523 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 101 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
