1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2008 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
