1945 Austin 16 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1945 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1945 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1945 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1945 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1945 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1945 Austin 16 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1968 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1945 Austin 16 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | 16 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1945 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
