1997 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 318 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1383 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
