1965 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 975 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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. 2009 Cadillac BLS has automatic transmission and 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac BLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Lotus | Cadillac |
| Model | Elan | BLS |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
