1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW Z3. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | Z3 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
