1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1981 Talbot Samba 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Lotus Elan weights approximately 149 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Talbot Samba, 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
Make | Lotus | Talbot |
Model | Elan | Samba |
Year Released | 1969 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1123 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 85 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 69 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2350 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |