1954 Cadillac 62 vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Cadillac 62. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Cadillac 62 would be higher. At 5,423 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Cadillac 62 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Cadillac 62 (267 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Cadillac 62 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Cadillac 62 weights approximately 1410 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. 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. 1954 Cadillac 62 has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1954 Cadillac 62 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Cadillac 62 | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | 62 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5423 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5510 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2050 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3290 mm | 2140 mm |
