2007 Honda Civic vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Honda Civic is newer by 39 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Honda Civic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Honda Civic weights approximately 578 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Honda Civic, 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. 2007 Honda Civic 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. 2007 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Honda Civic | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1170 mm |
