1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1993 Volkswagen Corrado
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Corrado is newer by 22 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 2,860 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Corrado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volkswagen Corrado (187 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Corrado should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Corrado weights approximately 340 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, 1993 Volkswagen Corrado, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1993 Volkswagen Corrado (245 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Corrado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1993 Volkswagen Corrado | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Corrado |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2860 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |
