1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Jaguar XF
To start off, 2012 Jaguar XF 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Jaguar XF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jaguar XF (385 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jaguar XF should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jaguar XF weights approximately 1025 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. 2012 Jaguar XF 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 Jaguar XF will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 Jaguar XF | |
| Make | Lotus | Jaguar |
| Model | Elan | XF |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4961 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1877 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2908 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
