2004 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 306 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 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, 2004 Hyundai Elantra (183 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Elantra | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Elantra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
