1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2011 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 43 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 490 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 2011 Suzuki SX4 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki SX4 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, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2011 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1605 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2499 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
