1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Because 1962 Lotus Elan 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 1997 Rover 400 | |
Make | Lotus | Rover |
Model | Elan | 400 |
Year Released | 1962 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1589 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 79 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2560 mm |