2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1971 Fiat 850
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Because 1971 Fiat 850 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 1971 Fiat 850. 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 (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1971 Fiat 850 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2040 mm |
