1986 Fiat Panda vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 26 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP) has 148 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Because 2012 BMW 520 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 2012 BMW 520. 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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1986 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1986 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Panda | 520 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
