1981 BMW 528 vs. 2004 Fiat Panda

To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 BMW 528 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 1981 BMW 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Panda (260 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 528 2004 Fiat Panda
Make BMW Fiat
Model 528 Panda
Year Released 1981 2004
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 1247 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 260 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 69.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 212 km/hour 160 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 935 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 3540 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2310 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 35 L