1955 Citroen 11 vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Citroen 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Citroen 11 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Citroen 11 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1955 Citroen 11. (55 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Citroen 11 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Because 1962 Lotus Elan 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 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen 11, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Citroen 11 | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 11 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2140 mm |
