2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1972 Fiat 124
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,249 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1972 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 124 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1249 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 38 L |
