2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 160 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 1979 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 1979 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
