2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Polo (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 105 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 Polo (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1107 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
