1956 Jensen 541 vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1970 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Jensen 541 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Jensen 541 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1970 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 Jensen 541 | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jensen | Lotus |
| Model | 541 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1170 mm |
