2007 Lotus Elise vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lotus Elise weights approximately 181 kg more than 1970 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elise | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1170 mm |
