1959 Jaguar XK vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Jaguar XK (251 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jaguar XK weights approximately 813 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1959 Jaguar XK | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | XK | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1473 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2140 mm |
