1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Lexus LS
To start off, 2012 Lexus LS 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus LS (438 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus LS weights approximately 1660 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 2012 Lexus LS 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, 2012 Lexus LS 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, 2012 Lexus LS (521 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2012 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Lotus | Lexus |
| Model | Elan | LS |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 438 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 521 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3091 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 84 L |
