1959 Lotus Elite vs. 1999 Tata Indica
To start off, 1999 Tata Indica is newer by 40 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 1,405 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Tata Indica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Tata Indica. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1999 Tata Indica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Tata Indica weights approximately 356 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite.
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, 1999 Tata Indica, 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, 1999 Tata Indica (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Tata Indica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 1999 Tata Indica | |
| Make | Lotus | Tata |
| Model | Elite | Indica |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1405 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
