1996 Fiat Marea vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 1996 Fiat Marea is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Marea. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Marea.

Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Marea, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Marea. (144 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Marea.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Fiat Marea 1979 Lotus Esprit
Make Fiat Lotus
Model Marea Esprit
Year Released 1996 1979
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1581 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 160 HP
Torque 144 Nm 217 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 187 km/hour 218 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2440 mm