2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Triumph Acclaim
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Triumph Acclaim. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Triumph Acclaim would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Triumph Acclaim is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Triumph Acclaim. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Triumph Acclaim. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 86 kg more than 1981 Triumph Acclaim. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Triumph Acclaim, 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, 1981 Triumph Acclaim (245 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1981 Triumph Acclaim will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1981 Triumph Acclaim | |
| Make | Lotus | Triumph |
| Model | Elise | Acclaim |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2330 mm |
