2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 51 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 20 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 54 L |
