1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 131 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Fiat | Lotus |
Model | 131 | Elan |
Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2260 mm |