1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Porsche 914
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,677 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1970 Porsche 914. (79 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 95 kg more than 1970 Porsche 914. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Porsche 914. (136 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1970 Porsche 914 | |
Make | Lotus | Porsche |
Model | Elan | 914 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1677 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 925 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |