1970 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Toyota MR2 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 2008 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1250 mm |
