2003 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 520 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
