1959 Lotus Elite vs. 1954 Porsche 356
To start off, 1959 Lotus Elite is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1954 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1954 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Porsche 356 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite.
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 Lotus Elite | 1954 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elite | 356 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
