1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Matra-Simca Murena
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Matra-Simca Murena would be higher. At 2,154 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Matra-Simca Murena is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (91 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Matra-Simca Murena 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 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. 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 1981 Matra-Simca Murena. (136 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Matra-Simca Murena.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1981 Matra-Simca Murena | |
Make | Lotus | Matra-Simca |
Model | Elan | Murena |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2154 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |