1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 60 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Lotus | Wartburg |
| Model | Elan | 312 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |
