2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 51 L |
