1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 26 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, 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. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Fiat Panda | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 131 | Panda |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1242 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 265 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 70.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |