1970 Austin 3 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1970 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Austin 3 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 Austin 3 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 1970 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1970 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Austin 3 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Austin | Lotus |
Model | 3 | Elan |
Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2260 mm |