1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP) has 132 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 305 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Elan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
