1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2007 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 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 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2007 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2007 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2007 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2007 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
