1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Subaru XT
To start off, 1987 Subaru XT is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Subaru XT (135 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Subaru XT weights approximately 271 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1987 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elan | XT |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
