1954 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 52 kg more than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Austin-Healey 100 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 1954 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1954 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1954 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1954 Austin-Healey 100 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | 100 | Elan |
Year Released | 1954 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 144 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2260 mm |