1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2012 Fiat Idea is newer by 16 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 69 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Idea. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Idea weights approximately 130 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Idea. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2012 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Lotus | Fiat |
| Model | Elan | Idea |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
