1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 665 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 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1986 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1986 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 230 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
