1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 Fiat 131 (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2003 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2170 mm |
