1993 Lotus Elan vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 25 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lotus Elan weights approximately 170 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, 1993 Lotus Elan, 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, 1993 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elan | Elan |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
