2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 981 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 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 (311 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 703 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 116 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 648 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
