1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Talbot 1510
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot 1510. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot 1510 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Talbot 1510. (63 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot 1510. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Talbot 1510 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot 1510. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot 1510.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1981 Talbot 1510 | |
| Make | Lotus | Talbot |
| Model | Elan | 1510 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
