2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP) has 167 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 664 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. 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 (311 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 131 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
