1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 30 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 6 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Fiat Panda (180 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
