1951 Ferrari 212 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,562 cc (12 cylinders), 1951 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1951 Ferrari 212. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1951 Ferrari 212. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 96 kg more than 1951 Ferrari 212. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Ferrari 212 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 1951 Ferrari 212. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1951 Ferrari 212 (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1951 Ferrari 212 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1951 Ferrari 212 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
Model | 212 | Elan |
Year Released | 1951 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2562 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 58.8 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 65 L |