1949 Buick 40 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 999 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1949 Buick 40 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | 40 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 696 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2140 mm |
