1955 Jaguar XK vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Jaguar XK (190 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Jaguar XK weights approximately 425 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Jaguar XK 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 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1955 Jaguar XK (285 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1955 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Jaguar XK | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | XK | Elan |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
