1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 37 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 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 35 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Because 1955 Austin A 55 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 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 55 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2260 mm |
