1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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 Austin A 55 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 55 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2240 mm |
