2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Fiat 131
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 482 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 131 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2500 mm |
