1993 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP) has 341 more horse power than 1993 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1993 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1370 kg more than 1993 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 522 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Fiat Panda. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1993 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1993 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Fiat Panda | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SL |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 767 cc | 5956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 375 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
