1998 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 32 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 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 912 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Corvette | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Corvette | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 29 L |
