1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Lotus Elan weights approximately 394 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (26 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 2CV | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 26 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 59 L |
