2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline is newer by 38 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Ridgeline weights approximately 493 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 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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. 2009 Honda Ridgeline has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Ridgeline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Ridgeline | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Ridgeline | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1193 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1170 mm |
