1996 BMW 540 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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 310 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 540 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 540. 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 540 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
