1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2000 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2000 Lotus Elise is newer by 32 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Lotus Elise (143 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Lotus Elise weights approximately 290 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 | 2000 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elise |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| 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 | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 36 L |
