1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2011 Dodge Caliber 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Caliber (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 484 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, 2011 Dodge Caliber, 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 Dodge Caliber (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Lotus | Dodge |
| Model | Elan | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 51 L |
