1981 Daihatsu Delta vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Daihatsu Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Daihatsu Delta would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Daihatsu Delta weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Delta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Delta | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Delta | Elise |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2200 mm | 2310 mm |
