1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Maserati Indy
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Maserati Indy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Maserati Indy would be higher. At 4,718 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Maserati Indy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Maserati Indy (288 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Maserati Indy should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Maserati Indy weights approximately 543 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Maserati Indy 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 1971 Maserati Indy. 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, 1971 Maserati Indy (400 Nm) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1971 Maserati Indy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1971 Maserati Indy | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elan | Indy |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4718 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
