1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1988 Lotus Esprit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 368 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Elan |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 59 L |
