1974 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Vega is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 185 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Vega | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Vega | Elan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2285 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 59 L |
