1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. Both 1968 Lotus Elan and 1971 Lotus Elan are equipped with a 1,558 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Lotus Elan weights approximately 150 kg more than 1971 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elan |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1170 mm |
