1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 43 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 431 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2012 Honda Civic | |
Make | Lotus | Honda |
Model | Elan | Civic |
Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
Torque | 146 Nm | 174 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 87.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1785 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |