1976 Fiat 131 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Fiat 131 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1976 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 1976 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Fiat 131 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Fiat | Lotus |
Model | 131 | Elan |
Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2260 mm |