1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 779 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jeep | Lotus |
| Model | Wrangler | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.6 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
