2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 140 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (128 Nm). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Idea | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1240 mm |
