1969 Fiat 500 vs. 2009 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 645 kg more than 1969 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 500. 2009 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1969 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1969 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 500 | 2009 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 480 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 30 L |
