1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 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 280 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 315 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 131 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |
