1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
Model | Elan | Cruze |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.5:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2685 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 59 L |