1989 Fiat Panda vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP) has 114 more horse power than 1989 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 840 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat Panda. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1989 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat Panda | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 767 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
