2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1610 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
