1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 440 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, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Elite | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Elan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 65 L |
