1984 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1984 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 648 kg more than 1984 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat Panda | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
