2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 35 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 337 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (203 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 45 L |
