1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 38 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 2,737 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 185 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.
Because 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2737 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |
