1955 Alpine A 106 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1955 Alpine A 106. (20 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Alpine A 106. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Lotus Elan weights approximately 166 kg more than 1955 Alpine A 106. 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:
| 1955 Alpine A 106 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alpine | Lotus |
| Model | A 106 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 45 L |
