1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1965 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1965 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1965 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Riley Kestrel weights approximately 35 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 Riley Kestrel, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Riley Kestrel. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1965 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Lotus | Riley |
| Model | Elan | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1965 |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2380 mm |
