2006 Fiat Panda vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 454 kg more than 2006 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Panda | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 3.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
