1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elite is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,216 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Austin A 40 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1962 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:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 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 |
