2005 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Fiat Panda (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2005 Fiat Panda.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Fiat Panda (255 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm). This means 2005 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2005 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2005 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Panda | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1180 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 |
