2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan. 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Challenger | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Challenger | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
