1986 Chevrolet Sprint vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Chevrolet Sprint. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Chevrolet Sprint would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1986 Chevrolet Sprint. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Chevrolet Sprint. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 345 kg more than 1986 Chevrolet Sprint. 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chevrolet Sprint. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chevrolet Sprint.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chevrolet Sprint | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Sprint | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3590 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
