1997 Fiat Panda vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP) has 134 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1165 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1997 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1845 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
