1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 733 kg more than 1996 Fiat 126.
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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 493 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 126 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 268 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2430 mm |
