1963 Lotus Elan vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Lotus Elan weights approximately 164 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elan |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
