1996 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Fiat 131
To start off, 1996 Fiat Panda is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Fiat 131 (64 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Fiat 131 weights approximately 336 kg more than 1996 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 131 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 1980 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1980 Fiat 131 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 1980 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 64 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2500 mm |
