1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 39 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 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 801 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 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara (231 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 66 L |
