1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 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 2,948 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 948 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (540 Nm) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | C |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 2948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1768 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
