1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ferrari 308 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 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Ferrari 308 (283 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ferrari 308 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
Model | 308 | Elan |
Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 283 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2260 mm |