2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Panda (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Panda weights approximately 115 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
