2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat Panda (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Fiat Panda (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 54 L |
