1981 Lancia Gamma vs. 1997 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1997 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lotus Elise (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 615 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Gamma, 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, 1981 Lancia Gamma (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Lancia Gamma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lancia Gamma | 1997 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Gamma | Elise |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |
