1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 770 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6250 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 | 430 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 71 L |
