1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lotus Elan weights approximately 75 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | 100 | Elan |
Year Released | 1955 | 1992 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2260 mm |