Fiat Panda

Fiat Panda

Manufacturer	Fiat
Production	1980–present
Predecessor	Fiat 133 Fiat Seicento
Class	City car

The Fiat Panda is a city car from the Italian automobile manufacturer Fiat. The first Fiat Panda was introduced in 1980, and was produced until 2003 with only a few changes. It is now sometimes referred to as the "old Panda". The second model, launched in 2003, is sometimes referred to "New Panda" or "Nuova Panda" (in Italian), and was the European Car of the Year in 2004. The third generation debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011 will be assembled in Italy at Pomigliano d'Arco.^[1] In over 31 years Fiat has sold over 6.5 million Pandas globally.^[2]

1st generation (1980–2003)

First generation

Production	1980–2003 (4,500,000 made[3])
Assembly	Mirafiori plant, Turin, Italy
Body style	3-door hatchback cabriolet van
Platform	Fiat Type Zero (Tipo Zero) platform[4]
Engine	652 cc I2 769 cc I4 903 cc I4 965 cc I4 999 cc I4 Electric engine 19 bhp (14 kW) (1990) Electric engine 23.8 bhp (18 kW) (1992)[5]
Length	3,340 mm (131.5 in)
Related	SEAT Panda SEAT Marbella SEAT Trans
Designer	Giorgetto Giugiaro

Introduced in 1980, the Panda was designed as a modern day "peasant car": a cheap, basic, no-frills utility vehicle, that would be easy to use and maintain. It can be seen as a later approach to the same niche which the Citroën 2CV and Renault 4 were designed to serve. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Panda was noted for its box-like styling, which would become the house style for Fiats throughout the 1980s.

Mechanically the first Pandas borrowed heavily from the Fiat parts bin. Engines and transmissions came from the Fiat 127 and, in certain territories, the air-cooled 652 cc two-cylinder powerplant from the Fiat 126. The plan for a mechanically simple car was also evident in the rear suspension, which used a dead axle suspended on leaf springs. Later versions of the car added various mechanical improvements but this spirit of robust simplicity was adhered to throughout the life of the model.

Many design features reflect the Panda's utilitarian practicality. Examples include a 7-position adjustable rear seat which could be folded flat to make a bed, or folded into a V shape to support awkward loads, or easily and quickly removed altogether to increase the overall load space. The first Pandas also featured removable, washable seat covers, door trims and dashboard cover, and all the glass panels were flat making replacements easy and cheap to produce. Much like its earlier French counterparts the Panda could be specified with a two piece roll forward canvas roof.

The original Panda met with great success across Europe, polling 2nd in the 1981 European Car of the Year awards in its first full year of production^[6] (pipped to first place by the Mark III Ford Escort) and staying in production in some regions until May 2003.^[7]

The first Pandas came fitted with either a two-cylinder air-cooled 652 cc engine (derived from that in the 126) — the Panda 30; or a four-cylinder water-cooled engine displacing 903 cc (from the 127) — the Panda 45. In September 1982 Fiat added more engines to the line-up. The Panda 34 used an 843 cc water-cooled unit derived from that in the 850.

Fiat launched the Panda 45 Super at the Paris Motorshow later in 1982, with previous specification models continuing as the "Comfort" trim. The Super offered numerous improvements, most significant being the availability of a five-speed gearbox as well as improved trim. There were minor styling changes to the Super including the introduction of Fiat's new black plastic "corporate" grille with five diagonal silver bars. The earlier grille design (metal with slots on the left for ventilation) continued on the Comfort models until the next major revision of the line-up. A 30 Super was added to the range in February 1983, offering the Super trim but with the smaller engine.

The Panda 4x4 was launched in June 1983, it was powered by a 965 cc engine with 48 bhp (36 kW) derived from that in the Autobianchi A112. Known simply as the Panda 4x4, this model was the first small, transverse-engined production car to have a 4WD system. The system itself was manually selectable, with an ultra-low first gear. Under normal (on-road) conditions starting was from second, with the fifth gear having the same ratio as fourth in the normal Panda. Austrian company Steyr-Puch supplied the entire drivetrain (clutch, gearbox, power take-off, three-piece propshaft, rear axle including differential and brakes) to the plant at Termini Imerese where it was fitted to the reinforced bodyshell^{[citation needed]}.

Minor revisions in November 1984 saw the range renamed "L", "CL" and "S". Specifications and detailing were modified across the range including the adoption of the Fiat corporate grille across all versions. Mechanically however the cars remained largely unchanged.

1st facelift (1986–1991)

First facelift of the original Panda

In January 1986 the Panda received a facelift and a series of significant mechanical improvements. The 652 cc air-cooled 2-cyl engine was replaced by a 769 cc (34 bhp) water-cooled 4-cyl unit, and the 903 cc by a 999 cc (45 bhp or 50 bhp (37 kW) in the 4x4) unit. Both new engines were from Fiat's new FIRE family of 4-cylinder water-cooled powerplants with a single overhead camshaft. The rear suspension was also upgraded, the rear leaf springs being replaced by a more modern independent suspension system using a rigid rear axle (known as the 'Omega' axle) with a central mounting and coil springs. The 4x4 retained the old leaf sprung set-up, presumably to avoid having to redesign the entire 4WD system.

Improvements were also made to the interior and the structure. The body was strengthened and fully galvanised on later models, virtually eliminating the earlier car's strong tendency to rust. The rear panel design was also revamped to include flared arches that mirrored those of the front wings, replacing the un-sculpted style seen on earlier models, and the doors received a slight redesign with the earlier car's quarter light windows being removed and replaced by a full width roll-down window. The bottom seam of the Mk II's doors unfortunately retained much the earlier car's susceptibility to rust. In ascending order of specification and cost, the revised range was as follows: 750L, 750CL, 750S, 1000CL, 1000S, 4x4.

April 1986 saw the introduction of a 1301 cc diesel engine with 37 bhp (a detuned 127/Uno unit). Fitted as standard with a five-speed gearbox it was only available in the basic "L" trim. A van variant of the Panda was also introduced, with both petrol and diesel engines. The van was basically a standard Panda without rear seats. The rear windows were replaced with plastic blanking panels and a small (always black) plastic extension with side hinged doors was fitted instead of the usual hatchback tailgate. Neither the van nor the diesel were available in right hand drive markets.

In 1987, a new entry-level model badged "Panda Young" was added to the range. This was essentially an L spec car with a 769 cc ohv engine based on the old 903 cc push-rod engine and producing the same 34 bhp (25 kW) as the more sophisticated 769 cc FIRE unit. The Panda 4x4 Sisley limited edition was also released; this was based on the standard 4x4, but came with metallic paint, inclinometer, sunroof, white painted wheels, roof rack, headlamp washers, bonnet scoop, "Sisley" badging and trim. Although originally limited to the production of only 500, in 1989 the Sisley model became a permanent model due to its popularity.

Panda Elettra

Panda Elettra in Santiago, 2010

The two-seat Panda Elettra, introduced in 1990, adding an all-electric power-train to the line. Batteries replaced the rear seats and occupied some of the engine bay where the 19 bhp (14 kW) DC motor was also fitted, driving through the normal clutch and gearbox. This increased the weight of the car significantly, to 1,150 kg (2,535 lb) (450 kg (992 lb) more than the standard model), necessitating stiffer suspension and uprated brakes.^[8] 1992 revisions to the Ellettra saw the power increased to 23.8 bhp (17.7 kW) and the weight reduced, though the Elettra remained significantly heavier than the standard Panda.

2nd facelift (1991–2003)

Second facelift of the original Panda

In 1991, a second facelift was introduced. This entailed a new front grille with a smaller five-bar corporate badge, plus revisions to trim and specifications across the range. New arrivals included the 'Selecta', which had a continuously variable transmission with an electromagnetic clutch. This advanced transmission was available either with the normal 999 cc FIRE engine (revised with single-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter) or an all new 1108 cc FIRE unit, fitted with electronic fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter and producing 51 bhp (38 kW).

The new CLX trim also featured a five-speed gearbox as standard. The range now comprised the 750 Young (769 cc ohv), 750 and 750 CLX (both 769 cc FIRE sohc), 900 Dance (903 cc ohv), 1000 Shopping, CLX, CL Selecta and S (all with 999 cc sohc, available with or without SPI and catalytic converter depending on the market), 1100 CL Selecta (1108 cc sohc with SPI and cat) and the 4x4 Trekking (999 cc, again available with and without a cat depending on the market). The Elettra concluded the range.

In 1992, the 1108 cc engine, complete with SPI and catalytic converter, replaced the 999 cc unit in the 4x4 (with 50 bhp) and also in 1992 an 899 cc (with injection and catalyst) became available, in the 'Cafe' special edition. This was a reduced capacity 903 cc unit, designed to meet tax requirements in some markets.

End of production

From 1996 onwards, the Panda was gradually phased out across Europe, due to tightening emissions and safety legislation. The car remained in production in Italy until May 2003. Its total production run of 23 years makes the Panda one of Europe's longest-lived small cars.

During the period between 1999 and 2003, sales and popularity of the Panda diminished, mainly because it was "old fashioned", according to a survey in 2000.^[9]

Most original models have long since succumbed to rust, but the facelift variant remains a relatively common sight on the roads of continental Europe, and many are still in daily use in the UK where the model ceased being available new in 1996. While the original Panda never gained the kind of cult following that similar cars such as the 2CV and VW Beetle enjoy, it nonetheless engendered strong feelings of attachment among many owners for its robustness, affordability, simplicity and flexibility.^{[citation needed]}

With the end of production, the 4x4 version of the Panda came to be seen as a valuable used car: it was cheap, sturdy and useful in rural areas, while most of the other 4x4 vehicles on the market were expensive SUVs. Also Fiat were not planning to build a 4x4 version of the replacement Nuova Panda.

The New Panda 4x4 Climbing version was introduced almost two years later, but didn't command the same success, being considered less reliable and too low to be employed in off-road duty.^{[citation needed]}

SEAT Panda / Marbella

SEAT Marbella

SEAT Trans

Main article: SEAT Marbella

Spanish car maker SEAT also produced a version of the Panda between 1980 and 1986, based on the original model. It was called SEAT Panda. SEAT also made a tiny, tall delivery version of the Panda called the SEAT Trans.

Up to 1983, SEAT made rebadged versions of Fiat cars through a licence agreement between the two firms. Thus, there existed a Spanish version of the Panda. When Pope John Paul II visited Spain in 1982, he rode in a specially built SEAT Panda.

After Fiat sold their share in SEAT and the licence agreement ended, the whole Fiat-based line of SEAT cars were quickly given minor facelifts.^{[citation needed]} The SEAT Panda had its bonnet, bumpers and rear tailgate redesigned. From 1986, when it received a second facelift, it was known as the SEAT Marbella until the end of production in 1998. Emelba also produced a roofless version called the Pandita, which was popular as a rental car in resort areas.

As Fiat and SEAT's licensing agreement had expired in 1986 the Marbella never received the major mechanical upgrades of the first facelift of the Fiat Panda, instead continuing with the old pushrod Fiat-based engines, quarter light doors, un-galvanised frame and leaf-sprung suspension as for the original model. It was popular in Spain throughout its production life, but was less popular on export markets (where the Fiat version was firm favourite) and by 1996, exports had mostly finished.

2nd generation (2003–2011)

Second generation

Production	2003–2011
Assembly	Tychy, Poland
Body style	5-door hatchback van
Platform	Fiat Mini platform
Engine	1.1L Fire I4 petrol 1.2L Fire I4 petrol 1.2L Fire Natural Power I4 CNG 1.4L Fire I4 petrol 1.4L Fire Natural Power I4 CNG 1.3L Multijet I4 diesel
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 5-speed semi-auto
Wheelbase	2,299 mm (90.5 in) 2,305 mm (90.7 in) (4x4)
Length	3538 mm (139.3 in)
Width	1578 mm (62.1 in)
Height	1578 mm (62.1 in)
Curb weight	840 kg (1,900 lb) (1.1 L) 860 kg (1,900 lb) (1.2 L) 935 kg (2,060 lb) (1.3 L) 975 kg (2,150 lb) (1.4 L)
Related	Fiat Panda Hydrogen Fiat 500 (2007) Fiat Uno (2010) Ford Ka II

Fiat Panda Cross 4x4

The second generation Panda, nicknamed New Panda and codenamed Model 169, first appeared in 2003. In its development phase, the new Panda was originally intended to be called "Gingo". However, this name was considered to be too similar to the Renault Twingo, so Fiat decided to continue with the Panda name.

Successor to the Fiat Seicento, the new model also effectively replaced the old Panda after 23 years of production, although the Seicento itself proved still popular and remained in production. Like the Seicento, the Panda is manufactured only in Tychy, Poland, by Fiat Auto Poland. A smaller, 3-door Fiat has been added to the range in 2007, the new 500.

The high-bodied Panda takes clear styling cues from mini MPVs and mini SUVs, with its tail lights in particular reminiscent of much larger cars from the likes of Volvo. The Panda won the European Car of the Year award in 2004.

The Panda includes an option for split rear seats, which makes the Panda a four-seater. Since September 2005, all Pandas are equipped with ABS, EBD and at least two front airbags. The gear-lever is located high on the central dashboard, which is designed to make changing gears more comfortable than with a conventional floor-mounted gearstick.

The financially troubled Fiat needed the new Panda to be a success, and indeed it was, selling half a million units by October 2005. It sells particularly well in Italy (over half of the cars produced are sold in Italy), being seen as closer to a spiritual successor to the Fiat 500 than a replacement for either the Seicento or the old Panda.

• The 500,000th new Panda was built on October 5, 2005, a light blue Panda Emotion with the 1.3-litre diesel engine.
• The 1,000,000th new Panda was built on September 5, 2007, a red Panda 4x4 Climbing with 1.2-litre petrol engine.^[10]
• The 1,500,000th new Panda was built on July 21, 2009, a blue Panda Emotion with 1.3-litre diesel engine.^[11]
• The 2,000,000th new Panda rolled out of factory on July 4, 2011, a red Panda 4x4 Cross with 1.3-litre 75 bhp Multijet diesel engine.^[12]

Top Gear Motoring Survey in 2006 ranked the Panda 8th out of 152 cars surveyed for reliability, craftsmanship, ownership costs, driving experience and service received. The show's host, James May, went on to purchase one). Traditionally, Fiat have ranked at the lower end of this table, showing that the Nuova Panda is reversing the trend and suggesting a rise in quality standards for Fiat.^[13] Data up to break of manufacturing in polish plant in 2011.

Official usage

The Panda is produced for police departments (the Polish police have bought some blue and white Panda Actual models), military agencies (the Italian Army uses several dark green Panda Climbing models), forest services (the Italian forest service has dark green Panda Climbing models), and mail delivery services (the yellow Swiss Post model even comes in a popular toy car format readily available in grocery stores).

2005 revisions

In September 2005 several changes were made to the Panda, including standard fitment of ABS and a front passenger's airbag.

2007 revisions

The Panda range received minor updates in March 2007, including a new, darker dashboard. The Active model also received new darker seat fabrics of better quality and the addition of a CD player as standard. The new dark red Fiat badge was also added to the Panda in Summer 2007.

2009 revisions

The Panda range was mildly rearranged again in 2009, with the addition of Active Eco and Dynamic Eco models. These models feature revised 1.1 and 1.2 petrol engines respectively, with better fuel economy and CO₂ emissions. Both models also qualify for £35 annual road fund license in the UK, and replace the original standard engines. Dynamic Aircon and SkyDome models were also dropped in favour of simplifying the Panda range.

On July 4, 2011, Fiat announced that the 2,000,000th Panda had rolled off of their Tychy, Poland assembly line. The milestone car was a Panda Cross finished in Rosso Sfrontato and equipped with the 75 hp 1.3 L Multijet four-cylinder diesel. Fiat did not say which country it was headed to.^[14]

Editions

• The 360 Special Series, based on the 1.2L Dynamic, is distinguished by a black and white crosshair style logo on the B pillar. Other upgraded features include; 14 inch alloy wheels, metallic paint, special interior trim (including the Fiat brand on the front seats), built in bluetooth phone system, CD player, air conditioning and a split folding rear seat. Other more standard features include; electric windows, central locking system and dual speed power steering. The total of all these extras comes somewhere in the region of £1,600 but surprisingly the upgraded 360 model actually retails at roughly £400 less than the Dynamic model. On the safety side of things, it comes with anti lock brakes and brake assist as well as two airbags as standard (driver and passnger) with the option of adding an extra four airbags taking the total up to six.
• The Natural Power is a dual-fuel version, it can burn either gasoline or CNG (Compressed Natural Gas a.k.a methane). Methane results in low emissions and increased fuel economy. The chassis is the same of the 4x4, the space of the rear wheels differential is occupied by two methane tanks allowing over 240 km of autonomy on gas only.
• The basic Actual has black bumpers, lacks electric windows and a full-size spare wheel. The Actual was introduced in January 2004.
• The Active, introduced in May 2003, features black self coloured bumpers and front electric windows, central door locking, Radio / Cassette player, driver's airbag, power steering. Manual climate control is available as an option. Since September 2005, ABS and the front passenger's airbag have been made standard. This model has the 1100 cc "FIRE" engine and a five-speed gearbox.
• The Active Plus edition is an up-equipped Active, with a cassette / CD player as standard. Production of the Active Plus stopped in December 2003.
• The Dynamic edition features ABS, dual airbags, roof bars, power steering and a cassette player as standard. A CD & MP3 player, CD changer, alloy wheels, manual or automated climate control, glass sunroof and a semi-automatic transmission are available as options. Since September 2005, four airbags have been standard in some countries, with an option for two additional side curtain airbags.
• The Emotion (Eleganza) edition is the highest trim level. This particular trim level features significant enhancements over the Dynamic, with a standard CD player, alloy wheels with low profile tires and automated climate control. In some countries such as the UK, the Emotion is sold as the "Eleganza".

Fiat Panda 100HP

• Discontinued in July 2010, The 100HP edition was the sportiest addition to the Panda family. it used the 1.4-litre 16-valve FIRE engine from the Fiat Punto tuned to develop 100 PS (74 kW; 99 bhp) through a six-speed manual transmission. It differs from other Pandas by being equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes, tinted windows, and sports styled front and rear bumpers. The Panda 100HP features a unique suspension setup with modified springs, dampers, bushes and compliance giving a considerably firmer ride.

The Panda 100 hp offers 0–100 km/h acceleration in 9.5 s and a maximum speed of 185 km/h (115 mph), with fuel consumption at 6.5 L/100 km (43.5 mpg_-imp; 36.2 mpg_-US) in the EU combined cycle and 154 g/km of CO₂ emissions. It was available in black, white, red, metallic blue, and metallic gray while a "Pandamonium Pack" which added red disc brakes, decals and colour coded wing mirrors was an optional extra.

• The 4x4 Climbing edition, introduced in December 2004, has a higher ride height and larger wheels and tires than other editions. The four-wheel drive system also makes this edition slower than others. Features are similar to those found in the Dynamic. The Climbing, however, lacks a differential lock and transmission with reductor. The Climbing edition can be distinguished by a slightly higher suspension, additional black plastic overlays on the bumpers and a "Climbing" badge just below the "Panda" badge on the left side of the rear licence plate. Swedish magazine Vi Bilägare found in a test 2007 that Panda 4x4 is a good and economical choice for a small family who need a car with four-wheel drive.

• The 4x4 Cross edition, similar to the Climbing, features differently shaped front and rear lights and additional side cladding. Unlike the Climbing, the Cross does have a differential lock. The Cross edition became available in January 2006 in Italy.

The Actual and Active are also bases for the Actual Van and Active Van, which can be used as small vans (they also have an additional safety net behind the front seats and removable rear seats). These versions can be identified by small "Van" label on the back door.

During the time, many limited editions of Panda (Active and Dynamic editions only) were produced. Each of them had additional interior fittings, differentiating them from the base model.

Prototypes and special editions

• Fiat Panda Alessi

Fiat Panda Alessi

Italian Design house Alessi created a special edition featuring a two-tone paint scheme and unique trim inside and out. Fiat gave away some of Alessi's products (coffee machine and tin-can openers) for the special model's debut at the Ideal Home Show in the UK.

• Fiat Panda Jolly

The Fiat Panda Jolly was created by Fiat Styling Center and Stola and inspired by boat design. It served as a special shuttle bus in Capri during the summer of 2006. The interior features innovative materials and exclusive trims. The concept mainly came from the 600 Multipla Jolly, a car created by Carrozzeria Ghia in 1956, which could be found on the streets of Capri 50 years ago. Defined by Fiat as "a car with a fresh, light and Mediterranean look both in the colors and materials", the Panda Jolly is inspired by the interior design and yacht design worlds, and features styling elements that remind of the spirit and way of life of the 1960s.

The interiors are created by Paola Lenti, an Italian leading company in the Interior Design sector, specialized in the research and development of innovative fabrics and materials. All the seats are upholstered in the exclusive sailing-inspired Rope fabric. This material is nonallergic, nontoxic, antibacterial and resistant to UV rays. Many structural elements like the floor, sills and various trims are made with pickled natural ash finish with white ash inlays.

• Fiat Panda Terramare 4

Panda Terramare's creator is Milan born Maurizio Zanisi, an independent former Iso Rivolta engineer, and his self-built amphibian is based on a Panda 4x4 chassis, but with an inflatable flotation belt, and waterjet propulsion driven off the rear axle.

On July 21, 2006, the Terramare crossed the English Channel from Folkestone in Kent to Cap Gris Nez in just over 6 hours.^[15]

• Fiat Panda Luxury

At the 'Luxury & Yachts' show in February 2006, Fiat exhibited a one-off car based on the 4x4 called the 'Luxury'. The outside of the car features dipped silver paintwork, precious metal trim and gleaming jewel-like mouldings with back-lit inset crystals. The interior features dipped silver appointments, precious metal details, Jewel Alcantara upholstery and leather with mother of pearl finish. The Fiat logo is also worked on the seats with stylish studs and crystals.

• Fiat Panda Hydrogen

Fiat Panda Hydrogen

Main article: Fiat Panda Hydrogen

The Panda Hydrogen, a car prototype driven by a hydrogen Fuel Cell, was a joint venture between Fiat Auto, the Fiat Research Centre and Fiat Powertrain Research & Technology with the support of the Research and Environment Ministries.

On the Panda Hydrogen, the Fuel Cell System is housed beneath the floorpan. The fuel cells are made up of several cells connected in series. Inside, the hydrogen and oxygen molecules are forced to react with the aid of a catalyst to produce water and heat. Electrical energy is generated with very high efficiency and zero emissions from the vehicle itself.

At full power, the Fuel Cell engine on the Panda Hydrogen delivers 60 kW (82 PS; 80 hp) that allows the car to reach a top speed of more than 130 km/h (81 mph), with acceleration from 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) in 5 seconds. The car can also easily climb a gradient of 23% at take-off.

During 2006 a demonstration stage of small Panda Hydrogen fleets, was a forerunner to other demonstration programs promoted and supported by the European Union and by the Italian Ministries and Regions. The aim is for such vehicles to be marketed within 15 to 20 years.

• Fiat Panda Tanker

Unveiled at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy, the Panda Tanker features only three doors. And although the overall shape has remained unchanged, the two rear doors have been replaced by solid panels to free up some extra load space in the practical cabin. Rugged extras and underbody protection also help to set the Tanker apart from the standard Panda 4x4 model. Designed in conjunction with Italian extreme sport clothing manufacturer Dainese, the show star is equipped with sports seats incorporating a rigid titanium fibre shell.

Reflecting the matt paint finish of the exterior, the cabin has a back-to-basics feel. With no rear seats, the load floor offers flexible attachments for fixing sports kit, while an aluminium structure is designed to carry mountain bikes.

• Fiat Panda MultiEco

The Panda MultiEco show-car made its world debut in Geneva 2006. Fiat sees this unit as the future of cars with a low environmental impact: the concept car represents the most advanced frontier achievable in terms of emissions and consumption, combining technologies that already exist or are ready for production..

The show-car combines an innovative 'powertrain' architecture – an engine with dual petrol/methane fuel supply, MTA transmission and BAS device – with the use of eco-compatible materials (recycled, recyclable or of natural origin) for the exterior and interior. The result is made even more interesting by the painstaking optimisation of the aerodynamics and a significant weight reduction.

Panda MultiEco is equipped with a dual-fuel (methane and petrol) FIRE engine – future developments will also make it possible to use a methane/hydrogen mix – combined with a BAS (Belt-driven Alternator-Starter) device and a Dualogic robotised gearbox.

• Fiat PanDAKAR

Two factory-built Fiat Panda 4x4s were prepared to contest the gruelling Dakar 2007 rally raid, which started in Lisbon.

Entered in the T2 category, the class which most closely represents production vehicles, the two Panda 4x4s, driven by Miki Biasion and former Dakar winner, Bruno Saby, respectively, are powered by Fiat Auto's 1.3 litre MultiJet turbodiesel combined with a six-speed manual gearbox. The engines deliver 105 bhp (78 kW) at 4500 rpm and a peak torque of 123 lb·ft (166.8 N·m). at 2500 rpm. Apart from their small dimensions, the two cars are particularly noteworthy for their automatic all-wheel drive system with viscous coupling and locking differential, a system that provides more grip and traction on rough and soft terrain thanks to the optimal split of drive to the wheels.

The two Pandas competing in Dakar 2007 have been equipped specifically for this rally: so room has been found inside for accessories like aluminium platforms to help extricate the vehicles from soft sand, shovels, spare wheels, water reserves for the crew, and other specialised equipment useful for the occasion. The Fiat expedition to Dakar included a Fiat Sedici as service back-up, and three Iveco trucks to transport spares and technicians.

Both PanDAKAR retired on the fourth stage of the event.

• Fiat Panda Simba

The Simba was unveiled at the Bologna Motor Show in 2002 purely as a concept car to give an idea how the following years production Panda would look. Some of the rugged styling cues made it on the production 'Cross' model

• Fiat Panda Aria

Fiat Panda Aria

Fiat presented Aria concept in Frankfurt Motor Show 2007. The Aria is equipped with new environment-friendly technology and outputs only 69 g/km CO₂. With 900 cc turbocharged straight-2 engine it produces 80 bhp (60 kW), its also capable of using both petrol and CNG.

This new engine is equipped with Fiat's Multiair technology, which uses electrohydraulic valve activation system. In monofuel (petrol) version the engine is capable of producing 105 bhp (78 kW). The car is also equipped with Stop&Start function, which helps to reduce consumption by 10% in urban driving.^[16]

Engines

The smallest engine, the 1.1 L petrol SOHC FIRE engine, which is rated at 54 bhp (40 kW) and found in the Fiat Seicento, has been criticised for being underpowered for the Panda, which weighs over 850 kg (1,874 lb), and the acceleration in particular was considered to be very slow. This engine is a construction from the early 80's.

However, the engine reportedly gains flexibility and power with use and is, of course, well proven. The 1.2 litre (actually 1242 cc), 60 hp (45 kW) engine is a derivative of the 1,1 litre and gives quite adequate performance in the Panda. The higher torque is a more important advantage than higher maximum power on this engine compared to the smaller 1,1 litre.

The 1.3-litre MultiJet diesel engine is rated at 75 bhp (56 kW) and 100 lb·ft (140 N·m) of torque; it is the most economical of all available engines. However, this engine is detuned from the Punto (where it develops 120 lb·ft (163 N·m) of torque) due to the Panda's weaker transmission. Pandas with diesel engines can be easily distinguished by a "MultiJet" badge on the right side of the rear licence plate.

Introduced into the range in 2006 was the 1368 cc FIRE engine which had previously seen service in the Fiat Stilo and Mk2B Punto Sporting (contrary to some press reports, it is not an adapted version of the 1.4 16v Starjet engine used in the Grande Punto). This FIRE engine has four cylinders in-line with sixteen valves actuated by belt driven double overhead camshafts.

The engine is undersquare with bore and stroke of 72 mm (2.8 in) and 84 mm (3.3 in) respectively, running at a compression ratio of 10.8:1. Ignition is by Fiat's Jet Thrust Stochiometric system with sequential multi-point fuel injection.

Model	First year of production	Motor	Engine Displacement	Power	CO2 (g/Km)	0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) (seconds)	Top speed	Average fuel use
1.1 Fire 8V	2003	straight-4, Petrol	1,108 cc	40 kW (54 PS; 54 hp)	133	15,0	93 mph (150 km/h)	41.8 mpg-US (5.63 L/100 km; 50.2 mpg-imp)
1.1 Fire 8V Eco	2008	straight-4, Petrol	1,108 cc	40 kW (54 PS; 54 hp)	119	15,0	93 mph (150 km/h)	47.6 mpg-US (4.94 L/100 km; 57.2 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V	2003	straight-4, Petrol	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)	133	14,0	96 mph (154 km/h)	42.6 mpg-US (5.52 L/100 km; 51.2 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V Eco	2008	straight-4, Petrol	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)	119	14,0	96 mph (154 km/h)	47.6 mpg-US (4.94 L/100 km; 57.2 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V Dualogic	2004	straight-4, Petrol	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)	127	14,0	96 mph (154 km/h)	44 mpg-US (5.3 L/100 km; 53 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V 4x4	2004	straight-4, Petrol	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)	155	20,0	96 mph (154 km/h)	36.1 mpg-US (6.52 L/100 km; 43.4 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V Natural Power	2006	straight-4, Petrol-Methane	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)-38 kW (52 PS; 51 hp)	113	19,0	86 mph (138 km/h)	38.3 mpg-US (6.14 L/100 km; 46.0 mpg-imp)
1.2 Fire 8V GPL (LPG)	2008	straight-4, Petrol-LPG	1,242 cc	44 kW (60 PS; 59 hp)	116	14,0	96 mph (154 km/h)	33 mpg-US (7.1 L/100 km; 40 mpg-imp)
1.4 Fire 16V	2006	straight-4, Petrol	1,368 cc	74 kW (100 PS; 100 hp)	154	9,5	114 mph (183 km/h)	36.6 mpg-US (6.43 L/100 km; 44.0 mpg-imp)
1.3 Multijet 16V	2004	straight-4, Diesel	1,248 cc	51 kW (69 PS; 68 hp)	114	13,0	99 mph (159 km/h)	55.4 mpg-US (4.25 L/100 km; 66.5 mpg-imp)
1.3 Multijet 16V 4x4	2005	straight-4, Diesel	1,248 cc	51 kW (69 PS; 68 hp)	136	19,0 (18,0 Cross)	99 mph (159 km/h) (93 mph (150 km/h) Cross)	45.6 mpg-US (5.16 L/100 km; 54.8 mpg-imp)
1.3 Multijet 16V DPF	2007	straight-4, Diesel	1,248 cc	55 kW (75 PS; 74 hp)	113	13,0	102 mph (164 km/h)	55.5 mpg-US (4.24 L/100 km; 66.7 mpg-imp)

Chinese copy controversy

On December 2006, Fiat considered taking legal action against Chinese automaker Great Wall Motor for the company's Peri, which is a copy of the Panda's design.^[17]

In July 2008, Fiat successfully sued Great Wall and had the Peri banned from importation into Europe. In addition, the court order ruled for Great Wall to pay Fiat a 15,000 euro fine for the first Peri imported, and an additional 50,000 euros for every subsequent car that was imported.^[18]

However, on October 2009, Great Wall Motor sued Fiat, accusing the latter of espionage. In the lawsuit, Great Wall claims that "Fiat once instigated espionage to prowl into its research center and take photos of Peri small car that was still under developed."^[19]

3rd generation (2011–)

Third generation

Production	2011–
Assembly	Pomigliano d'Arco, Naples, Italy
Body style	5-door hatchback van
Platform	Fiat Mini platform
Engine	0.9L TwinAir I2 petrol 1.2L Fire I4 petrol 1.3L Multijet I4 diesel
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 5-speed semi-auto
Length	3,650 mm (143.7 in)
Width	1,640 mm (64.6 in)
Height	1,550 mm (61.0 in)
Related	Lancia Ypsilon Fiat 500 (2007) Fiat Uno (2010) Ford Ka II

Fiat presented the third generation of Panda at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. The new architecture is based on the Fiat Mini platform. The production of the new Panda will begin in the renewed Pomigliano d'Arco Plant in last quarter of 2011.

Engines

Model	Displacement	Power	Torque	CO2
0.9 Aspirated TwinAir	875 cc	65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp)	n/a	n/a
0.9 TwinAir Turbo	875 cc	85 PS (63 kW; 84 hp) @5500	145 N·m (107 lb·ft) @1900	n/a
1.2 Fire 8v	1,242 cc	69 PS (51 kW; 68 hp) @5500	102 N·m (75 lb·ft) @3000	n/a
1.3 Multijet II	1,248 cc	75 PS (55 kW; 74 hp)	n/a	n/a
0.9 TwinAir Turbo Natural Power (petrol/methane)	875 cc	80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp)	n/a	n/a
1.2 EasyPower (petrol/LPG)	1,242 cc	69 PS (51 kW; 68 hp)	n/a	n/a

References

1. ^ "Fiat Produces 1,000,000th Panda". Car Scoop. Google Blogspot. http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/09/fiat-produces-1000000th-panda.html. Retrieved 2009-01-10. 
2. ^ "New Panda 2012 third generation". Fiatpress.com. 2011-08-30. http://www.fiatpress.com/press/detail/11327. Retrieved 2011-09-04. 
3. ^ 30 anni di Fiat Panda e 6.000.000 di auto prodotte, IT: Autoblog, http://www.autoblog.it/post/25418/fiat-panda-al-salone-di-ginevra-ha-festeggiato-30-anni  (Italian)
4. ^ "Fiat Type platform". Fiat-tipo-portugal.com. http://fiat-tipo-portugal.com/curiosidades.htm#TDUE. Retrieved 2010-09-30. 
5. ^ "Fiat Panda". Concept Carz. http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z16563/Fiat-Panda.aspx. Retrieved 2009-10-06. 
6. ^ "Previous_Cars". caroftheyear.org. Archived from the original on 2007-12-13. http://web.archive.org/web/20071213214528/http://www.caroftheyear.org/pages/Previous_Cars/1981.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-29. 
7. ^ "Fiat Panda". panda-marbella.webs.com. http://panda-marbella.webs.com/. Retrieved 2011-04-24. 
8. ^ "Toen al groen: Fiat Panda Elettra". FIATblog.nl. http://www.fiatblog.nl/?p=4139. Retrieved 24 April 2011. (Dutch)
9. ^ 1999: Fiat Panda sales drop down as people say it is "old fashioned", according to a survey^{[dead link]}
10. ^ "One millionth Fiat Panda rolls off the production lines". italiaspeed.com. 2007-09-05. http://www.italiaspeed.com/2007/cars/fiat/09/panda_1_million/0509.html. Retrieved 2007-09-08. 
11. ^ "Fiat Panda number 1,500,000 rolls off the lines at Tychy". italiaspeed.com. 2009-07-24. http://www.italiaspeed.com/2009/cars/fiat/07/panda_15_million/2407.html. Retrieved 2009-07-28. 
12. ^ "Two millionth second generation Fiat Panda is built at Tychy". italiaspeed.com. 2011-07-05. http://italiaspeed.com/2011/cars/fiat/07/panda_2_million/0407.html. Retrieved 2011-07-05. 
13. ^ "Survey". topgear.com. http://www.topgear.com/content/carsurvey/2006/fiat/panda/. Retrieved 2007-09-08. 
14. ^ "Fiat builds 2,000,000 Panda in Polish plant". European Car News. http://europeancarnews.com/2011/07/04/fiat-builds-2000000-panda-in-polish-plant/. 
15. ^ "Fiat Panda Terramare 4 makes it across the English Channel". autoblog.com. http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/21/fiat-panda-marine-edition/. Retrieved 2009-02-15. 
16. ^ "Fiat Panda Aria Concept Debut". worldcarfans.com. http://www.worldcarfans.com/9070903.005/fiat-panda-aria-concept-debut. Retrieved 2007-09-23. 
17. ^ re. "13.12.2006 FIAT IS CONSIDERING TAKING LEGAL ACTION TO STOP GREAT WALL'S PANDA CLONE BEING SOLD IN EUROPE". ItaliaSpeed.com. http://www.italiaspeed.com/2006/cars/financial/12/great_wall/1312.html. Retrieved 2010-09-30. 
18. ^ "Fiat Successfully Sues Chinese Automaker for Panda Clone". Left Lane News. 2010-08-11. http://www.leftlanenews.com/fiat-successfully-sues-chinese-automaker-for-panda-clone.html. Retrieved 2010-09-30. 
19. ^ "Fiat Faces Lawsuit from Great Wall Motor Co". Auto Evolution. 2010-08-19. http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fiat-faces-lawsuit-from-great-wall-motor-co-11876.html. Retrieved 2010-09-30. 

External links