1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat 500 weights approximately 698 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. 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. 2012 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Lotus | Fiat |
Model | Elan | 500 |
Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1368 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1128 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3546 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1628 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1519 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2301 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |