1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1982 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1982 Toyota Starlet is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Toyota Starlet. (47 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1982 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Toyota Starlet weights approximately 320 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1982 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
