2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1962 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 871 kg more than 1962 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 500 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 1962 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1962 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 22 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 36 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3190 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 37 L |
