2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen 1302 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen 1302 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 1978 Volkswagen 1302. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1978 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1107 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
