2003 Fiat Panda vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 865 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 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda. 2004 BMW 318 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. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Panda | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 63 L |
