2004 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 563 kg more than 2004 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 320. 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 (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 320. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 320 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 320 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2004 2009
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1873 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 57 L