1970 Chevrolet Vega 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 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 15 kg more than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Chevrolet Vega 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 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Chevrolet Vega. 1970 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Chevrolet Vega | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Vega | Elan |
Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2287 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2260 mm |