1972 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1972 Chevrolet Corvette (380 Nm) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm). This means 1972 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Chevrolet Corvette | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Corvette | Elan |
Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5734 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 165 HP |
Torque | 380 Nm | 201 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2260 mm |