2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 856 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. 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 (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 126 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 1850 mm |
