1997 Fiat Panda vs. 1975 Fiat 124
To start off, 1997 Fiat Panda is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Fiat 124 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1997 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Fiat 124 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 1975 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1975 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 1975 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 124 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
