1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2001 TVR Chimaera is newer by 30 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 4,986 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 TVR Chimaera (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 190 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 TVR Chimaera (484 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2001 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Lotus | TVR |
| Model | Elan | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 484 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 269 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 57 L |
