1956 Austin A 30 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 30 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 30. (28 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Lotus Elan weights approximately 16 kg more than 1956 Austin A 30. 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:
| 1956 Austin A 30 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 30 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 802 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 28 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |
