1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 48 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 1305 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, 2012 Lexus RX, 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, 2012 Lexus RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 2012 Lexus RX 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. 2012 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Lotus | Lexus |
| Model | Elan | RX |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 73 L |
