1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Honda Insight
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Honda Insight. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Insight weights approximately 426 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, 2012 Honda Insight, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Elan | Insight |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1246 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |
