1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2003 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 232 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 2003 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2003 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Valiant | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2280 mm |
