1981 Honda Accord vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,602 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 37 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Accord | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Accord | Elan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2260 mm |
