1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Subaru Rex 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 132 more horse power than 1983 Subaru Rex. (31 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1983 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 465 kg more than 1983 Subaru Rex. 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 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Subaru Rex. (43 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1983 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elan | Rex |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 43 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
