1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Peugeot 408. (110 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Peugeot 408.
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 Peugeot 408, 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, both vehicles can yield 147 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Peugeot 408 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 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elan | 408 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2710 mm |
