1949 Buick 40 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 56 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 969 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
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 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | 40 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 896 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2310 mm |
