1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 Porsche 914
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1969 Porsche 914. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 60 kg more than 1969 Porsche 914. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Porsche 914 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 1969 Porsche 914. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Porsche 914. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1969 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 914 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |
