1981 Honda Civic 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 Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1981 Honda Civic. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 212 kg more than 1981 Honda Civic. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Civic. (93 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Honda Civic | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Honda | Lotus |
Model | Civic | Elan |
Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1333 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 93 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2260 mm |