1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1961 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1961 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 MG MGA weights approximately 11 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, 1961 MG MGA (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 MG MGA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1961 MG MGA | |
Make | Lotus | MG |
Model | Elan | MGA |
Year Released | 1969 | 1961 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2390 mm |