1989 Honda Civic vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Honda Civic is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Honda Civic. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Civic.
Because 1963 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Honda Civic, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1963 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1963 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Honda Civic | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Honda | Lotus |
Model | Civic | Elan |
Year Released | 1989 | 1963 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |