1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 616 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat Panda | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | Panda | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 770 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 33 HP | 115 HP |
Torque | 57 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |