2005 Acura RL vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL, 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. 2005 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Acura | Lotus |
| Model | RL | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 45 L |
