1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Rover P5B
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,528 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1971 Rover P5B. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Rover P5B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Rover P5B weights approximately 560 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Rover P5B 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 Rover P5B. 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 Rover P5B (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1971 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1971 Rover P5B | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elan | P5B |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3528 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2820 mm |
