1977 Fiat 127 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 145 kg more than 1977 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Fiat 127, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 127. (64 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 127 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 127 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2310 mm |
