2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 255 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500. 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500. 2012 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 500 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2301 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
