1991 Fiat Panda vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Fiat Panda is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1991 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 387 kg more than 1991 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Lotus Esprit 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Fiat Panda | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 31 L |
