1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Reliant SE6
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant SE6 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 Reliant SE6 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 Reliant SE6. 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, 1981 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1981 Reliant SE6 | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Elan | SE6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
