1989 Fiat Panda vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1989 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 568 kg more than 1989 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat Panda | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 767 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
