1978 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1978 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 200 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan.
Because 1965 Lotus Elan 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 1965 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Ritmo, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Ritmo | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Ritmo | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1301 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
