1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (345 HP) has 185 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 398 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (475 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Corvette | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5666 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 345 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 475 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
Top Speed | 277 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |