2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 1974 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2004 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2004 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1974 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
