1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 300 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Lotus Esprit 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1120 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
