1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 160 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | 3000 Mk III | Elan |
Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2260 mm |