2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 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 @ 5900 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 844 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. 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 (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1424 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 20 L |
