2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 63 kg more than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 320. 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 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 | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 57 L |
