1981 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 27 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1560 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat Panda. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Panda | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | R |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
