1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Proton Arena
To start off, 2007 Proton Arena is newer by 36 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Proton Arena. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2007 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Proton Arena weights approximately 165 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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, 2007 Proton Arena, 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, 1971 Lotus Elan (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Proton Arena.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2007 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elan | Arena |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
