1999 Chrysler 300 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Chrysler 300 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,517 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chrysler 300 (251 HP @ 6450 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler 300, 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. 1999 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chrysler 300 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 300 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3517 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1170 mm |
