1988 Fiat Panda vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 676 kg more than 1988 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat Panda | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
