2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Elantra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 59 L |
