1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 593 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Fiat | Chrysler |
| Model | 131 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
