1982 Fiat Panda vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1982 Fiat Panda is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,283 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Fiat Panda (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 125 kg more than 1982 Fiat Panda.
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, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat Panda. (66 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat Panda | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2410 mm |
