1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 327 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | Z3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 57 L |
