1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 234 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 441 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 850 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2420 mm |
