1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Charger 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Charger (292 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Charger weights approximately 1153 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. 2012 Dodge Charger 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 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2012 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Lotus | Dodge |
| Model | Elan | Charger |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5077 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3053 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 72 L |
