1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1982 Lotus Esprit is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 407 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Elan |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 45 L |
