2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 28 kg more than 2003 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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, 1988 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (128 Nm). This means 1988 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Idea | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1160 mm |
