2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1972 Toyota Publica
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,107 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 240 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Fiat Panda (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1972 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | Panda | Publica |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1107 cc | 790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2170 mm |
