1979 Honda Prelude vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1979 Honda Prelude is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,750 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Honda Prelude. (90 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Honda Prelude weights approximately 230 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Honda Prelude, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Honda Prelude | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Honda | Lotus |
Model | Prelude | Elan |
Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1750 cc | 1556 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2140 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 29 L |