1996 Lotus Elise vs. 1970 Subaru FF-1
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Subaru FF-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Subaru FF-1 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1970 Subaru FF-1. (80 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1970 Subaru FF-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Subaru FF-1 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Subaru FF-1, 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 Elise (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Subaru FF-1. (99 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Subaru FF-1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elise | 1970 Subaru FF-1 | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elise | FF-1 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1267 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 197 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 726 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
