1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1981 Lada 1200
To start off, 1981 Lada 1200 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lada 1200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lada 1200 (59 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lada 1200 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lada 1200 weights approximately 230 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 1981 Lada 1200 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 1981 Lada 1200. 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, 1981 Lada 1200 (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Lada 1200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1981 Lada 1200 | |
| Make | Fiat | Lada |
| Model | Panda | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 39 L |
