1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2010 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2010 Fiat Panda is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Fiat Panda weights approximately 40 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 2010 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Beetle | Panda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
