2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 575 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 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | Panda | 242 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2660 mm |
