2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 785 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 126 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 20 L |
