1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1956 Rover P4
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,636 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1956 Rover P4. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Rover P4 weights approximately 451 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1956 Rover P4 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 1956 Rover P4. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Rover P4 (206 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1956 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1956 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elan | P4 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2636 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 105 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2830 mm |
