1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Toyota Soarer
To start off, 1981 Toyota Soarer 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 2,759 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Toyota Soarer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Toyota Soarer (157 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Toyota Soarer should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Toyota Soarer weights approximately 645 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. 1981 Toyota Soarer has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Soarer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1981 Toyota Soarer | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Soarer |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2759 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2670 mm |
