1969 Honda S800 vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1970 Lotus Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Honda S800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Honda S800 would be higher. At 1,556 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1969 Honda S800. (67 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Honda S800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Honda S800 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Honda S800 | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | S800 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 789 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3350 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1170 mm |
