1997 Honda Civic vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Honda Civic is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,556 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Honda Civic. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Civic weights approximately 255 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 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 1970 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Honda | Lotus |
Model | Civic | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1395 cc | 1556 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 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 | 955 kg | 700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |