2009 Citroen C1 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Citroen C1 is newer by 40 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C1. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Lotus Elan weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Citroen C1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Citroen C1, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C1. (93 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C1 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C1 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 45 L |
