1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Panda (59 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Panda weights approximately 160 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
