1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1979 Ferrari 312 is newer by 16 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 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 408 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 312 weights approximately 11 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | 312 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
