1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1963 Porsche 356
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1963 Porsche 356. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1963 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 85 kg more than 1963 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Porsche 356 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 1963 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Porsche 356. (126 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1963 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 356 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2110 mm |
