1948 Citroen 11 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Citroen 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Citroen 11 would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Citroen 11 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 11. (55 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Citroen 11 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1948 Citroen 11, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Citroen 11 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 11 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3280 mm | 2440 mm |
