2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 301 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 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 20 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
