1950 Austin A 40 vs. 1961 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1961 Lotus Elite is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,216 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Elite (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Austin A 40 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1961 Lotus Elite.
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:
| 1950 Austin A 40 | 1961 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 29 L |
