1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1972 Porsche 917
To start off, 1972 Porsche 917 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,994 cc, 1972 Porsche 917 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 394 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 72 kg more than 1972 Porsche 917.
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, 1972 Porsche 917 (610 Nm) has 457 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 1972 Porsche 917 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1972 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 917 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 798 kg |
