1995 Fiat Panda vs. 1970 Reliant Bug

To start off, 1995 Fiat Panda is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Bug. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Bug would be higher. At 769 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Fiat Panda (34 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Bug. (31 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Bug. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Fiat Panda weights approximately 272 kg more than 1970 Reliant Bug. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Reliant Bug 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 1970 Reliant Bug. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Fiat Panda (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Reliant Bug. (52 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1995 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Reliant Bug.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Fiat Panda 1970 Reliant Bug
Make Fiat Reliant
Model Panda Bug
Year Released 1995 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 769 cc 701 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 34 HP 31 HP
Torque 58 Nm 52 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 8.4:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 680 kg 408 kg
Vehicle Length 3420 mm 2800 mm
Vehicle Width 1500 mm 1400 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2170 mm 1960 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 23 L