1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1977 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1977 Toyota Carina is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Toyota Carina (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Toyota Carina weights approximately 480 kg more than 1961 Lotus Elite. 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 Lotus Elite | 1977 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elite | Carina |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2510 mm |
