1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (180 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 262 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (286 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | Z3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2429 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1564 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 57 L |
