2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Fiat 131
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Fiat 131 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 131 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 1980 Fiat 131. 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1980 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 131 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 953 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2500 mm |
