1986 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 25.3 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |
