1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 1997 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1962 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 1997 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 103 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
