2003 Fiat Panda vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 285 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Fiat Panda. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1249 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.1 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
