1971 Fiat 130 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 130 would be higher. At 3,235 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 130 (165 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 130 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 130 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 130 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 1971 Fiat 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1971 Fiat 130 (249 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1971 Fiat 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1971 Fiat 130 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Fiat 130 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 130 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 130 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3235 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
