1998 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 168 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 318 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
