2003 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 318 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 57 L |
