2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 322 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 953 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
