2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1983 Subaru Coupe
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Subaru Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Subaru Coupe would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1983 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1983 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Subaru Coupe weights approximately 33 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Subaru Coupe, 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Subaru Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1983 Subaru Coupe | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elise | Coupe |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 60 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
