1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight

To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 160 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight weights approximately 938 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.

Because 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 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 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight. 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, 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight (380 Nm) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight 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. 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Lotus Elan 1975 Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight
Make Lotus Oldsmobile
Model Elan Ninety-Eight
Year Released 1991 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 5735 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 160 HP
Torque 143 Nm 380 Nm
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 103.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 85.9 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 997 kg 1935 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 5900 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 3230 mm


 

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