1957 Lotus XI Le Mans vs. 1999 Lotus Elise

To start off, 1999 Lotus Elise is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Elise (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. (84 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Elise weights approximately 298 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. 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:

1957 Lotus XI Le Mans 1999 Lotus Elise
Make Lotus Lotus
Model XI Le Mans Elise
Year Released 1957 1999
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1096 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 84 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 72.4 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66.7 mm 89.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 410 kg 708 kg
Vehicle Length 3540 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 820 mm 1210 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 2310 mm