2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Fiat Ritmo
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 753 kg more than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Fiat Ritmo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ritmo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1049 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
