1949 Jensen Interceptor vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Jensen Interceptor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Jensen Interceptor would be higher. At 3,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Jensen Interceptor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. (130 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Jensen Interceptor weights approximately 479 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1949 Jensen Interceptor 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 1949 Jensen Interceptor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1949 Jensen Interceptor (288 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1949 Jensen Interceptor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Jensen Interceptor | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jensen | Lotus |
| Model | Interceptor | Elan |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2260 mm |
