1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Elise weights approximately 86 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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 Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Fiesta | Elise |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 957 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 806 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 38 L |