1960 Fairthorpe Electron vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fairthorpe Electron would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. (42 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 210 kg more than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. 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:
| 1960 Fairthorpe Electron | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Lotus |
| Model | Electron | Elan |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 42 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 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 | 490 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1170 mm |
