1972 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1972 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin 1800 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 Lotus Elise is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin 1800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin 1800 | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | 1800 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
