1980 Fiat Panda vs. 1999 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1999 Lotus Elise is newer by 19 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Elise (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (48 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Fiat Panda weights approximately 112 kg more than 1999 Lotus Elise.
Because 1999 Lotus Elise 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 1999 Lotus Elise. 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, 1999 Lotus Elise (165 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (147 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 1999 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Elise |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 165 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 | 708 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
