2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (137 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 634 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 131 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 50 L |
