2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 495 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
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 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (120 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 172 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
