1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 18 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 696 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.
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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Panda | Contour |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 195 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
