1978 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (116 HP) has 63 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 Lotus Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 1998 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Fiat | Lotus |
Model | 131 | Elise |
Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
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 | 116 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 705 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |