1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Talbot Horizon 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 106 more horse power than 1977 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 75 kg more than 1977 Talbot Horizon. 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Talbot Horizon. (101 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Talbot Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1977 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Lotus | Talbot |
| Model | Elan | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
