1988 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 105 kg more than 1988 BMW 525.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 525 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
