1954 Fiat 500 vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1954 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1954 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Elise weights approximately 140 kg more than 1954 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:
| 1954 Fiat 500 | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 500 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 568 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 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 | 610 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 31 L |
