1972 Fiat 500 vs. 1980 Fiat Panda
To start off, 1980 Fiat Panda is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 843 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Fiat Panda (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Fiat Panda weights approximately 310 kg more than 1972 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Fiat Panda (147 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 500. (28 Nm). This means 1980 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 500 | 1980 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 843 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 820 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2450 mm |
