1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 43 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), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 290 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 | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elise |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
