1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1965 Marcos 1800
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Marcos 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Marcos 1800 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Marcos 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1965 Marcos 1800. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1965 Marcos 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 227 kg more than 1965 Marcos 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Marcos 1800 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 1965 Marcos 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1965 Marcos 1800 (149 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1965 Marcos 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1965 Marcos 1800 | |
| Make | Lotus | Marcos |
| Model | Elan | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2280 mm |
