1958 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,637 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Chevrolet Corvette (227 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 407 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1958 Chevrolet Corvette (407 Nm) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1958 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Chevrolet Corvette | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Corvette | Elan |
Year Released | 1958 | 1991 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4637 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 407 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 98.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2260 mm |