1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Panda weights approximately 105 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat Panda. 2011 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Lotus | Fiat |
| Model | Elan | Panda |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2310 mm |
