1982 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,249 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Panda (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Panda weights approximately 275 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Fiat 126 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 1982 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 126 | 2003 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1249 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2350 mm |
