1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 959 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Panda | SL |
Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1302 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 80 L |