1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster 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 Toyota Matrix, 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 Toyota Matrix (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
