1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lotus Elan weights approximately 306 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan, 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | Sprite | Elan |
Year Released | 1964 | 1992 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2260 mm |