1980 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1980 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,375 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chevrolet Camaro (123 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 745 kg more than 1971 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:
| 1980 Chevrolet Camaro | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Camaro | Elan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4375 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1170 mm |
