1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
To start off, 1980 Fiat Panda is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser would be higher. At 5,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser weights approximately 1125 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 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 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser (380 Nm) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1971 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser | |
| Make | Fiat | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Panda | Vista Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 5734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1945 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3080 mm |
