1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Citroen C4
To start off, 2011 Citroen C4 is newer by 42 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Citroen C4. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2011 Citroen C4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C4 weights approximately 374 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, 2011 Citroen C4, 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, 2011 Citroen C4 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Citroen C4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elan | C4 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
