2008 Fiat Idea vs. 1958 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,247 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Idea weights approximately 570 kg more than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Because 1958 Lotus Elite 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 1958 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Idea | 1958 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Idea | Elite |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 66.7 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 | 1150 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 29 L |
