1984 Fiat Panda vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1984 Fiat Panda. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 619 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.
Because 1984 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Fiat Panda 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat Panda. (69 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat Panda | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 965 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |
