1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1981 Toyota Celica is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Celica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Toyota Celica (148 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Celica weights approximately 514 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. 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:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1981 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Celica |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2620 mm |
