1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1981 Buick LeSabre is newer by 10 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 890 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Buick LeSabre | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Buick | Lotus |
Model | LeSabre | Elan |
Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 3690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1170 mm |