1976 Fiat 126 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1976 Fiat 126 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,215 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Lotus Elite weights approximately 80 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 126 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 29 L |
