1986 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 16 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Chevrolet Corvette (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 738 kg more than 1970 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:
| 1986 Chevrolet Corvette | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Corvette | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 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 | 1438 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1170 mm |
