2005 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 304 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.
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, 2005 Fiat Panda (255 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 2005 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Panda | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
