2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1357 kg more than 1974 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 500 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 1974 Fiat 500. 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 (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
Model | PT Cruiser | 500 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 18 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 27 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 516 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 2980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1330 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 22 L |