2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 151 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.
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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
