1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1984 Vauxhall Carlton
To start off, 1984 Vauxhall Carlton is newer by 14 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Vauxhall Carlton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. (70 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Vauxhall Carlton weights approximately 600 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. 1984 Vauxhall Carlton 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. 1984 Vauxhall Carlton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 1984 Vauxhall Carlton | |
| Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
| Model | Elan | Carlton |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1480 mm |
