1961 Fiat 2300 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 2300 would be higher. At 2,278 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 2300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 2300 (115 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 2300 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Fiat 2300 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 2300 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fiat | Lotus |
| Model | 2300 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2278 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1170 mm |
