2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 Fiat 500
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 890 kg more than 1970 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 500 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 1970 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1970 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 500 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 67.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 510 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 22 L |
