1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Toyota Prius

To start off, 2007 Toyota Prius is newer by 43 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Prius weights approximately 710 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, 2007 Toyota Prius, 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, 1964 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1964 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Toyota Prius. 2007 Toyota Prius 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. 2007 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1964 Lotus Elan 2007 Toyota Prius
Make Lotus Toyota
Model Elan Prius
Year Released 1964 2007
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1498 cc 1497 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 100 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 138 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
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 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 3700 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1150 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2140 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 45 L