1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 412 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Fiat 126 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 126 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2260 mm |
