1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Subaru Coupe
To start off, 1981 Subaru Coupe is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Subaru Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Subaru Coupe weights approximately 65 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Subaru Coupe, 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 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1981 Subaru Coupe | |
Make | Lotus | Subaru |
Model | Elan | Coupe |
Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1593 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 67 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 114 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 91.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 60 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |