1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 Fiat Panda is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Lotus Elan weights approximately 16 kg more than 1986 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Panda, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 72.8 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 | 680 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
