1968 Citroen DS vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,175 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1968 Citroen DS. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1968 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 391 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Citroen DS | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Elan |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2175 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
