2011 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 165 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda. 2009 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Golf | Panda |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1400 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 17 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4199 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 30 L |
