1979 Ferrari 308 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 308 (240 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 283 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ferrari 308. 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, 1979 Ferrari 308 (260 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1979 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 308 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | 308 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2260 mm |
