2001 Jaguar XJ vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2001 Jaguar XJ is newer by 33 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 3,248 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Jaguar XJ (240 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 1280 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.
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. 2001 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Jaguar XJ | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | XJ | Elan |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2240 mm |
