2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1979 Fiat 131
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 166 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Fiat 131 (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1979 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
