2005 Lexus IS vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 720 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | IS | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 59 L |
