2002 BMW 330 vs. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2002 BMW 330 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 330 weights approximately 212 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 BMW 330 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 2002 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 BMW 330 (421 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2002 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 330 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 330 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2002 1998
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 201 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 421 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 4000 RPM
Top Speed 235 km/hour 180 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1418 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 57 L