1989 Eagle Summit vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Eagle Summit is newer by 21 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Eagle Summit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Eagle Summit (111 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Eagle Summit should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Eagle Summit 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Eagle Summit, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Eagle Summit | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Eagle | Lotus |
| Model | Summit | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1170 mm |
