1973 Fiat 124 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 291 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 410 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 124 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
