1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 27 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 167 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2420 mm |
