1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight
To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 108 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight weights approximately 925 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 1981 Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight | |
| Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Elan | Eighty-Eight |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1410 mm |
