1982 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 840 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Fiat 126 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 1982 Fiat 126. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1982 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1982 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 126 | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Fiat | Chrysler |
| Model | 126 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
