1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1995 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 679 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1995 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 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 | 660 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 73 L |
