1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1958 Riley 4
To start off, 1961 Lotus Elite is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Riley 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Elite (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1958 Riley 4. (63 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1958 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Riley 4 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Lotus Elite | 1958 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Riley |
| Model | Elite | 4 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
