1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith would be higher. At 4,256 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. (123 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith weights approximately 1103 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith 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 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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. 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith | |
| Make | Lotus | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Elan | Silver Wraith |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1949 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 123 HP |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3230 mm |
