2008 Citroen C5 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite

To start off, 2008 Citroen C5 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen C5 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C5 weights approximately 937 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Lotus Elite 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C5, 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, 2008 Citroen C5 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Citroen C5 1959 Lotus Elite
Make Citroen Lotus
Model C5 Elite
Year Released 2008 1959
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1560 cc 1216 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 71 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1517 kg 580 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1560 mm 1190 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2240 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 29 L