2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 325 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2002 Hyundai Elantra (183 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 2002 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Elantra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
