1982 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1982 Fiat Panda. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1145 kg more than 1982 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat Panda. (66 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat Panda | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SL |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
