2003 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 141 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, 2009 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 BMW 318 (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 318 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 57 L |
