1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1969 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1969 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1969 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 ZAZ 966 weights approximately 26 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Lotus Elise (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 1969 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Lotus | ZAZ |
| Model | Elise | 966 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 887 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2170 mm |
