1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 623 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 23 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| 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 | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
