1969 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Chevrolet Impala (166 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 875 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Impala 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 1969 Chevrolet Impala. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Chevrolet Impala (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1969 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Chevrolet Impala | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Impala | Elan |
Year Released | 1969 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 387 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |