1981 Fiat Panda vs. 1987 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (53 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 144 kg more than 1981 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, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 1987 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
| Model | Panda | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 834 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2530 mm |
