2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,249 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Panda (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Panda weights approximately 110 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volkswagen 1302 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 1974 Volkswagen 1302. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen 1302. (85 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1974 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1249 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
