2001 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 BMW 316. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 55 kg more than 2001 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 316 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 2001 BMW 316. 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 (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 316 | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 316 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
