2004 BMW 116 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2004 BMW 116 is newer by 1 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 100 more horse power than 2004 BMW 116. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 225 kg more than 2004 BMW 116. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 116 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 2004 BMW 116. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 116. (153 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 116. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 116 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 116 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:

2004 BMW 116 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 116 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2004 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2399 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 115 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 339 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 101.4 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 1505 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L