2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 609 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 124 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1756 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2350 mm |
