1971 Honda Life vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Honda Life. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Life would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 131 more horse power than 1971 Honda Life. (29 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Life. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 507 kg more than 1971 Honda Life. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Life. (28 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Life.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda Life | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Life | Elan |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 67 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 50.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 113 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2090 mm | 2260 mm |
