1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Suzuki Kizashi
To start off, 2011 Suzuki Kizashi is newer by 40 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Suzuki Kizashi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Suzuki Kizashi (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki Kizashi should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Suzuki Kizashi weights approximately 600 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, 2011 Suzuki Kizashi, 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, 2011 Suzuki Kizashi (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Suzuki Kizashi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2011 Suzuki Kizashi | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Kizashi |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4651 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 63 L |
