1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Porsche 356 weights approximately 18 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 356 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 838 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
