1997 Fiat Panda vs. 1982 Fiat 131
To start off, 1997 Fiat Panda is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Fiat 131 (70 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Fiat 131 weights approximately 345 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 1982 Fiat 131 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 1982 Fiat 131. 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, 1982 Fiat 131 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 1982 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2500 mm |
