1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (101 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat 500 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Lotus | Fiat |
| Model | Elite | 500 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1072 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2301 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
