1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 46 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 1080 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 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Lotus | Buick |
| Model | Elan | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 59 L |
