1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1986 Fiat Panda is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1986 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 230 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 25.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 65 L |
