1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 MG ZT
To start off, 2004 MG ZT is newer by 35 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZT (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZT weights approximately 785 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 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, 2004 MG ZT, 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, 2004 MG ZT (215 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2004 MG ZT | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | ZT |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2760 mm |
