1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1998 Toyota MR2 is newer by 32 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 575 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 | 1998 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 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 | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
