1983 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1983 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,556 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1983 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Daihatsu Charade weights approximately 26 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Daihatsu Charade, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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:
| 1983 Daihatsu Charade | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charade | Elan |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1170 mm |
