1974 Buick Riviera vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1974 Buick Riviera is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick Riviera (250 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1965 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. 1974 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Buick Riviera | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Riviera | Elan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 45 L |
