1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1960 MG MGA
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 MG MGA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1960 MG MGA. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1960 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 120 kg more than 1960 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 MG MGA 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 1960 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 MG MGA. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1960 MG MGA | |
Make | Lotus | MG |
Model | Elan | MGA |
Year Released | 1989 | 1960 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2390 mm |