1968 Jaguar 240 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Jaguar 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Jaguar 240 would be higher. At 2,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Jaguar 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1968 Jaguar 240. (131 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1968 Jaguar 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Jaguar 240 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Jaguar 240 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 1968 Jaguar 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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 204 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Jaguar 240 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | 240 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2483 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2260 mm |
