1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 40 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 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 647 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.
Because 1964 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 1964 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elan | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
