1996 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 235 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 461 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Fiat Panda. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Panda. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Panda | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 684 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
