1997 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1997 Fiat Panda is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (73 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 210 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.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 73 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
