1951 Abarth 205 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Abarth 205. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Abarth 205 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1951 Abarth 205. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1951 Abarth 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 52 kg more than 1951 Abarth 205. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1951 Abarth 205 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Abarth | Lotus |
| Model | 205 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1188 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 818 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 59 L |
