2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
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 Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Ritmo 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 568 kg more than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat Ritmo 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 | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 51 L |
