1956 Daihatsu Bee vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Daihatsu Bee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Daihatsu Bee would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1956 Daihatsu Bee. (20 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Daihatsu Bee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 355 kg more than 1956 Daihatsu Bee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1971 Lotus Elan (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Daihatsu Bee. (36 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Daihatsu Bee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Daihatsu Bee | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Lotus |
| Model | Bee | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1558 cc |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 515 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2000 mm | 2440 mm |
