1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1978 Buick LeSabre is newer by 13 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 930 kg more than 1965 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. 1978 Buick LeSabre 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. 1978 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick LeSabre | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | LeSabre | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2140 mm |
