1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 131 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
