2008 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Jeep Wrangler 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Wrangler (203 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 959 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 Jeep Wrangler (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jeep Wrangler | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jeep | Lotus |
| Model | Wrangler | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1829 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 59 L |
