2004 Citroen Xsara vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 701 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen Xsara | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
