1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elite is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 191 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
| Model | 100 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 29 L |
