1978 Austin Marina vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Panda weights approximately 243 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 1978 Austin Marina. 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1978 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1978 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Marina | Panda |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2310 mm |
