2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 1966 Lotus Elan

To start off, 2001 Chrysler Neon is newer by 35 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 444 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.

Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon, 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon (154 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Chrysler Neon 1966 Lotus Elan
Make Chrysler Lotus
Model Neon Elan
Year Released 2001 1966
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1557 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 154 Nm 147 Nm
Torque RPM 4950 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 696 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 3700 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1180 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2140 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 87 L 45 L