1943 Fiat 500 vs. 1964 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1964 Lotus Elan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1943 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1943 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Lotus Elan weights approximately 55 kg more than 1943 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1943 Fiat 500 | 1964 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 500 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1943 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2140 mm |
