1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1981 Toyota Century
To start off, 1981 Toyota Century is newer by 20 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 3,376 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Toyota Century (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Century should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Century weights approximately 1225 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 | 1981 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elite | Century |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 3376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2870 mm |
