1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom
To start off, 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom is newer by 35 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 6,749 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom (454 HP @ 5350 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom weights approximately 1783 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. 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom 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. 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom | |
| Make | Lotus | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Elan | Phantom |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 6749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 2485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 6090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1640 mm |
