1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 MG ZT
To start off, 2008 MG ZT is newer by 40 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZT (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZT weights approximately 710 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 MG ZT (410 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2008 MG ZT | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | ZT |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
