1979 De Tomaso Longchamp vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp weights approximately 680 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 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp 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 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp. 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, 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp (450 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 De Tomaso Longchamp | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Lotus |
| Model | Longchamp | Elan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2260 mm |
