1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 TVR Vixen
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 TVR Vixen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 TVR Vixen would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 TVR Vixen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1970 TVR Vixen. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 TVR Vixen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 233 kg more than 1970 TVR Vixen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 TVR Vixen 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 TVR Vixen. 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 TVR Vixen. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 TVR Vixen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1970 TVR Vixen | |
| Make | Lotus | TVR |
| Model | Elan | Vixen |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 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 | 787 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2290 mm |
