2006 BMW 530 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 3 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Because 2006 BMW 530 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 2006 BMW 530. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 530 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 530 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2006 2003
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 255 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 85.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 57 L