2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 271 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda, 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Panda. (260 Nm). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 935 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 67 L |
