2003 Fiat Punto vs. 1996 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,251 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Punto (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Punto weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 Fiat Punto. 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, 2003 Fiat Punto (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 1996 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Punto | Punto |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1251 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
