1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elise is newer by 30 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elise weights approximately 9 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 | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elise |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
