1989 Dodge Daytona vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Dodge Daytona is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Daytona (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 524 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1989 Dodge Daytona (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Daytona | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Daytona | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2440 mm |
