1981 GMC Suburban vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Suburban (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 GMC Suburban | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
Make | GMC | Lotus |
Model | Suburban | Elan |
Year Released | 1981 | 1969 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 130 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2440 mm |