2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 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 (139 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 518 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 1972 Fiat 124. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 124 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 38 L |
