1975 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (134 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Fiat 131 weights approximately 209 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
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 Elise (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 131 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
