2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 2012 BMW 320. 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 320 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
