1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 41 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 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (95 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 264 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2009 Ford Fiesta 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. 2009 Ford Fiesta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2009 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1490 mm |
