2009 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 314 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 530 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make BMW Chrysler
Model 530 PT Cruiser
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 500 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1760 kg 1446 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 57 L