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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 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 345 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 48 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 | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
