1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 36 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maestro | Elan |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |
