2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 232 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda.

Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Fiat Panda 1996 Lotus Esprit
Make Fiat Lotus
Model Panda Esprit
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1107 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 53 HP 285 HP
Torque 88 Nm 510 Nm
Engine Bore Size 70 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.6:1 8.0:1
Top Speed 150 km/hour 265 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 3540 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1150 mm
Wheelbase Size 2310 mm 2420 mm