1970 Fiat 500 vs. 2011 Fiat Panda

To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Panda weights approximately 645 kg more than 1970 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 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 1970 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 500. 2011 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1970 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1970 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Fiat 500 2011 Fiat Panda
Make Fiat Fiat
Model 500 Panda
Year Released 1970 2011
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
Horse Power 14 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 24 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
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