1942 Cadillac 60 vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1963 Lotus Elan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Cadillac 60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Cadillac 60 would be higher. At 5,671 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Cadillac 60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Cadillac 60 (148 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1942 Cadillac 60 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Cadillac 60 weights approximately 1226 kg more than 1963 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Cadillac 60 | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | 60 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5671 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3230 mm | 2140 mm |
