2008 Fiat Idea vs. 1998 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Idea. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Jensen SV-8 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 1998 Jensen SV-8. 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, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Idea | 1998 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Jensen |
| Model | Idea | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 75 L |
