1997 Fiat Punto vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 447 kg more than 1997 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Punto | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | Punto | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
