2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Fiat 126
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 126 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1228 kg more than 1996 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Fiat 126 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 1996 Fiat 126. 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 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat 126 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 | 1996 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 126 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 704 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 25 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 116 km/hour |
| 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 | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
