1981 Fiat Panda vs. 1948 Fiat 500
To start off, 1981 Fiat Panda is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 843 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Panda (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Fiat 500 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Because 1948 Fiat 500 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 1948 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 1948 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 500 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1948 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 52 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2010 mm |
