1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1983 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 365 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 | 1983 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 76.2 mm |
| 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 | 702 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1120 mm |
