2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (180 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | Panda | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 935 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2260 mm |
