1964 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 Maserati Tipo 61
To start off, 1964 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati Tipo 61. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 would be higher. At 2,890 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 (247 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. 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:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 1959 Maserati Tipo 61 | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elan | Tipo 61 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2890 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2210 mm |
