1994 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Chrysler 160
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler 160. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Because 1973 Chrysler 160 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 1973 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler 160. (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler 160. 1973 Chrysler 160 has automatic transmission and 1994 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1994 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler 160 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 1973 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | Lotus | Chrysler |
| Model | Elan | 160 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
