1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour 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 1,124 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (74 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart ForFour weights approximately 250 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, 2005 Smart ForFour (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 2005 Smart ForFour 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 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | Panda | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 23 seconds | 13.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 47 L |
