1996 Fiat Punto vs. 2009 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 113 kg more than 1996 Fiat Punto. 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, 2009 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto. 2009 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Punto | 2009 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Punto | Panda |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 953 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
