1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2011 Subaru Impreza 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Subaru Impreza (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 535 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 2011 Subaru Impreza is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Impreza 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, 2011 Subaru Impreza (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elan | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
