1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat Panda | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | Panda | Passat |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 843 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 48 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1436 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2712 mm |