1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1988 Toyota Carina is newer by 27 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Toyota Carina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Toyota Carina (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Toyota Carina weights approximately 500 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.
Because 1961 Lotus Elite 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 1961 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota Carina, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Elite | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elite | Carina |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
