2005 Fiat Panda vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 65 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Panda. (69 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 553 kg more than 2005 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm). This means 2005 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Panda | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 230 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.3 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 72 L |
