1969 Fiat 850 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 298 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 850. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Fiat 850 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 850. (66 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 850 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 850 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2310 mm |
