1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Proton Arena
To start off, 2009 Proton Arena 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Proton Arena. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Proton Arena weights approximately 339 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Proton Arena, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Proton Arena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2009 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elan | Arena |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
