2003 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Copen | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Copen | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2260 mm |
