1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 635 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127, 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 127 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2430 mm |
