1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elite is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,215 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Lotus Elite weights approximately 60 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 2CV | Elite |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 29 L |
