2004 Acura EL vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Acura EL is newer by 33 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 1,668 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura EL weights approximately 312 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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, 2004 Acura EL, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Acura EL (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Acura EL | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Acura | Lotus |
Model | EL | Elan |
Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 126 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 153 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |