1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2004 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Panda (59 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Panda weights approximately 415 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 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 1959 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda, 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2004 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Abarth | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 35 L |
