1964 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 110 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elan |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1971 |
| 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 | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 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 | 590 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1170 mm |
