1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 McLaren F1 GTR
To start off, 1996 McLaren F1 GTR is newer by 26 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 6,061 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 McLaren F1 GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 McLaren F1 GTR (627 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 519 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 McLaren F1 GTR should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 McLaren F1 GTR weights approximately 420 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 1996 McLaren F1 GTR | |
| Make | Lotus | McLaren |
| Model | Elan | F1 GTR |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 6061 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 627 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1090 mm |
