1959 Isuzu Minx vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Isuzu Minx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Isuzu Minx 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 120 more horse power than 1959 Isuzu Minx. (45 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Isuzu Minx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 70 kg more than 1959 Isuzu Minx. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Isuzu Minx 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 1959 Isuzu Minx. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Isuzu Minx. (91 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Isuzu Minx.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Isuzu Minx | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Isuzu | Lotus |
Model | Minx | Elan |
Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 45 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 91 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2260 mm |