2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 196 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 2009 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Peugeot 406. 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | Panda | 406 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1044 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
