1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP) has 156 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1210 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
