1972 Alpine A 310 vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 1,605 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1972 Alpine A 310. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 195 kg more than 1972 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Alpine A 310 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 1972 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan, 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, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Alpine A 310 | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Alpine | Lotus |
Model | A 310 | Elan |
Year Released | 1972 | 1995 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1605 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2260 mm |