1997 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Daihatsu Charade. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Daihatsu Charade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Daihatsu Charade weights approximately 149 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Daihatsu Charade, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Daihatsu Charade | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Charade | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2240 mm |
