1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 1981 Porsche 944 is newer by 10 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 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Porsche 944 (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Porsche 944 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1971 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:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 944 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1280 mm |
