1956 Buick 40 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,279 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Buick 40 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Buick 40 weights approximately 884 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. 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 Buick 40 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | 40 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5279 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1704 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2440 mm |
