1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo is newer by 34 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 385 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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 | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elan | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 22 L |
