1992 Lotus Elan vs. 1975 Seat 1430
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Seat 1430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Seat 1430 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1975 Seat 1430. (70 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1975 Seat 1430. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lotus Elan weights approximately 90 kg more than 1975 Seat 1430. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Seat 1430 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 Seat 1430. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Seat 1430. (112 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Seat 1430.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 1975 Seat 1430 | |
| Make | Lotus | Seat |
| Model | Elan | 1430 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 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 | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
