1999 Daihatsu SP-4 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 is newer by 30 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1999 Daihatsu SP-4. (62 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Daihatsu SP-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Daihatsu SP-4. (107 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Daihatsu SP-4. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Daihatsu SP-4 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | SP-4 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2140 mm |
