1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1949 MG TD
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 MG TD weights approximately 26 kg more than 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1949 MG TD | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | TD |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1949 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1250 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2390 mm |
