2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Fiat Cabriolet
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat Cabriolet would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 663 kg more than 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat Cabriolet 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 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat Cabriolet. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat Cabriolet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 Fiat Cabriolet | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cabriolet |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 37 L |
