1959 Abarth 1000 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1000 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1000. (88 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Lotus Elan weights approximately 22 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1000. 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:
| 1959 Abarth 1000 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Abarth | Lotus |
| Model | 1000 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1170 mm |
