1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1955 Maserati 150S
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Maserati 150S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Maserati 150S would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Maserati 150S (138 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Maserati 150S should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lotus Elan weights approximately 240 kg more than 1955 Maserati 150S.
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:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1955 Maserati 150S | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elan | 150S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1484 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2160 mm |
