1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 673 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Caprice | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2260 mm |
