2009 Lexus IS vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 850 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lexus IS | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Lexus | Lotus |
Model | IS | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4969 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 416 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 503 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |