1956 Abarth 750 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Abarth 750. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Abarth 750 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1956 Abarth 750. (41 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Abarth 750. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 436 kg more than 1956 Abarth 750. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Abarth 750 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 1956 Abarth 750. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Abarth 750. (54 Nm). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Abarth 750.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Abarth 750 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Abarth | Lotus |
| Model | 750 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2260 mm |
