1978 Daihatsu Taft vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1978 Daihatsu Taft is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Daihatsu Taft weights approximately 426 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 1963 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (63 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1963 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Taft | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1963 |
| Engine Size | 958 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2140 mm |
