1996 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (138 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 768 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.
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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Audi |
| Model | Panda | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
