1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk would be higher. At 3,050 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk weights approximately 654 kg more than 1966 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. 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1960 Studebaker Silver Hawk | |
| Make | Lotus | Studebaker |
| Model | Elan | Silver Hawk |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3050 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
