1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR7 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR7. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 48 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1980 Triumph TR7 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 1980 Triumph TR7. 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, 1980 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1980 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Triumph |
| Model | Elan | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| 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 | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2170 mm |
