1973 MG MGB vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 MG MGB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 MG MGB would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1973 MG MGB. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1973 MG MGB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 MG MGB weights approximately 88 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
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, 2012 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 MG MGB. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 MG MGB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 MG MGB | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | MG | Lotus |
| Model | MGB | Elise |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2299 mm |
