1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 25 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), 2003 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 215 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Fiat | Lotus |
Model | 131 | Elise |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
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 | 121 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 750 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 |