2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 215 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.
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, 2008 Fiat Panda (180 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm). This means 2008 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | Panda | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
