1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1979 Lotus Esprit is newer by 8 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Lotus | Lotus |
Model | Elan | Esprit |
Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 153 Nm | 217 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |