1963 Lotus Elan vs. 1952 Porsche 356
To start off, 1963 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Porsche 356 weights approximately 221 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan.
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:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 1952 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 356 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 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 | 594 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 79 L |
