1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 44 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 1411 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 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1849 mm |
