1958 Abarth 750 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 750. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 750 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 750. (43 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 750. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 485 kg more than 1958 Abarth 750. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 750 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 Abarth 750. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 750. (57 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 750.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 750 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Abarth | Lotus |
| Model | 750 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 65 L |
