1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1979 Ford Capri
To start off, 1979 Ford Capri is newer by 11 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. At 2,294 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford Capri (112 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Capri weights approximately 270 kg more than 1968 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. 1979 Ford Capri has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Capri will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1979 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Capri |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 58 L |
