1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 41 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (505 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 397 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 740 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 505 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1237 mm |
