1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 MG ZT
To start off, 2001 MG ZT is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 MG ZT (187 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 MG ZT weights approximately 705 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 MG ZT, 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, 2001 MG ZT (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2001 MG ZT | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | ZT |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
