2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 921 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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. 2009 Buick Lucerne has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick Lucerne | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Lucerne | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3880 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
