2008 BMW 523 vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 3 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (113 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 380 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.

Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 523 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 523 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2008 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4550 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 85.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 230 km/hour 176 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1870 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 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