1985 Fiat 126 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 432 kg more than 1985 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Fiat 126 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 1985 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan, 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat 126 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 126 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2260 mm |
