1969 Austin 1300 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin 1300 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1969 Austin 1300. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Austin 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 165 kg more than 1969 Austin 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Austin 1300. (101 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Austin 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin 1300 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | 1300 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2260 mm |
