2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 39 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 238 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta (205 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Fiesta | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 59 L |
