1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1962 Tatra T603
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1962 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1962 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Tatra T603 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1971 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. Let's talk about torque, 1962 Tatra T603 (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1962 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1962 Tatra T603 | |
Make | Lotus | Tatra |
Model | Elan | T603 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1962 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2545 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 94 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |