1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (166 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 638 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 Monte Carlo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 Monte Carlo (387 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Elan |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2260 mm |
