1959 Lotus Elite vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse
To start off, 1988 Rover Vitesse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,675 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Rover Vitesse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Rover Vitesse (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 847 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Rover Vitesse (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1988 Rover Vitesse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Lotus Elite | 1988 Rover Vitesse | |
Make | Lotus | Rover |
Model | Elite | Vitesse |
Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1216 cc | 2675 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 178 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 104 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1427 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2760 mm |