2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 260 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1249 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2430 mm |
