1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1972 TVR M
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 TVR M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 TVR M would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 TVR M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1972 TVR M. (105 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 TVR M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 TVR M weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1972 TVR M 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 1972 TVR M. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 TVR M. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 TVR M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1972 TVR M | |
| Make | Lotus | TVR |
| Model | Elan | M |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 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 | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2290 mm |
