1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,756 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Panda. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 81 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 124 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 1107 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
