2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1968 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1305 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1968 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2397 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 | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 67.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1815 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 22 L |
