1969 Fiat 124 vs. 1981 Fiat Panda
To start off, 1981 Fiat Panda is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Fiat 124 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1969 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 124 | 1981 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 124 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 843 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 34 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 58 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 40 L |
