1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Lotus Excel
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lotus Excel 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. 1983 Lotus Excel weights approximately 138 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1983 Lotus Excel 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 1983 Lotus Excel. 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, 1983 Lotus Excel (218 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1983 Lotus Excel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1983 Lotus Excel | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Excel |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
