1969 Citroen DS vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Citroen DS is newer by 1 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1969 Citroen DS. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Citroen DS weights approximately 390 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, 1969 Citroen DS, 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:
| 1969 Citroen DS | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | DS | Elan |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
