1986 Fiat Panda vs. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 16 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 850 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 2002 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2002 Volkswagen Microbus. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 2002 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2470 mm |
