1986 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 405 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 25.3 seconds | 17 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |
