2009 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 4 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. 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, 2009 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 320 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 320 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2009 2005
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 253 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 188 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4150 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 83 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.6:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1400 kg
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 57 L