1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 38 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Suzuki Vitara (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 619 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.
Because 2004 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Suzuki Vitara (220 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm). This means 2004 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2004 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
