2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1960 Fiat 500
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,247 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Panda (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Panda weights approximately 380 kg more than 1960 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Fiat 500 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 1960 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Fiat Panda (260 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 500. (30 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1960 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 30 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 67.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 1960 mm |
