1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 410 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 Buick Century 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 1981 Buick Century. 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, 1981 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1981 Buick Century | |
Make | Lotus | Buick |
Model | Elan | Century |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3213 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |