1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette is newer by 18 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 950 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.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1989 Oldsmobile Silhouette | |
Make | Lotus | Oldsmobile |
Model | Elan | Silhouette |
Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3135 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 119 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1680 mm |