2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 Fiat 124
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 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) has 91 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 943 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. 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 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1970 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1970 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1970 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 124 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 38 L |
