1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Lotus Elan weights approximately 279 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Lotus |
| Model | Atom | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |
