2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2011 BMW 530

To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 BMW 530 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2011 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2011 BMW 530
Make Chrysler BMW
Model PT Cruiser 530
Year Released 2008 2011
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2148 cc 2993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 149 HP 256 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 540 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 84 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Top Speed 183 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 8-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4907 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1670 mm 1462 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2968 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 70 L