1992 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1992 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 23 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 535 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, 1992 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1992 Hyundai Sonata (167 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Hyundai Sonata | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Elan |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2140 mm |
